British nationals advised against all travel to parts of turkey

The demonstrations in Istanbul and other cities in Turkey in which police used tear gas and water cannons have been part of a protest against the country’s Islamist-rooted government.

“They call me a dictator,” said Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdgogan, who has been called to resign, in a speech on Sunday. "If they liken a humble servant to a dictator, then I am at a loss for words."

The possibility of further demonstrations “remains high”, warns the FCO, highlighting the Turkish towns of Akḉakale and Ceylanpinar as particularly dangerous. The FCO has advised against “all but essential travel” to areas within 10km of Turkey’s border with Syria. On 11 May 2013, 2 car bombs killed 51 people and wounded more than 100 in the town of Reyhanli, Hatay Province.

“The FCO advise against all but essential travel to the provinces of Hakkari, Sirnak, Siirt and Tunceli,” the office announced in a statement. “You should be especially vigilant when travelling in other provinces in south Eastern Turkey and in areas in close proximity to the Syrian border.”

“There is a high threat from terrorism. The PKK has carried out frequent attacks throughout the country. Al Qaeda and other networks have specifically targeted western interests in Turkey. There have also been attacks close to the Syrian border.”

Over 2,500,000 British nationals visit Turkey every year. Most visits are trouble-free.

For up to date advise as the situation progresses, go to http://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey