Turkiye: Activists protesting in Izmir, Sept. 3

Political activists affiliated with the Freedom and Solidarity Party (SOL) are protesting near the Izmir port facilities as of the afternoon of Sept. 3. Participants are denouncing the presence of the United States Navy vessel USS Wasp, currently deployed in the Mediterranean Sea, at Izmir Port facilities. Participants marched from Kibris Sehitleri Street to the port facilities, where the demonstration is likely ongoing. The protest follows a confrontation between local activists and US service personnel in Izmir, Sept. 2. Members of the SOL party claim that they will maintain a presence in the area until the departure of USS Wasp. Further demonstrations are likely in the coming days.

Police have likely deployed to monitor the action. The demonstration and associated security measures will likely prompt localized transport disruptions in the surrounding area. Isolated clashes cannot be ruled out, particularly if activists attempt to breach any security cordons.