[93314] Istanbul: Taksim Square closed due to fears of Pride Parade

Tension surrounding the Istanbul Pride Parade: Taksim Square was blocked

Throughout the day (June 21, 2026), several Turkish news channels reported a hermetic closure of the central Taksim Square in Istanbul. According to the channel Sondakika Haber Gündem, as of 10:00 AM, the metro station at the square was closed to operations and remained closed "until further notice."

Reports indicate that the measures were taken to prevent the Pride Parade that was planned in the area. The Islamist channel Daily Islamist, known for its conservative and anti-LGBTQ+ positions, noted that "Taksim was closed with the goal of preventing the parade planned by LGBTQ+ groups" according to this source.

Similar reports also appeared on the channel Son Dakika Haberleri, which confirmed that the location was "completely closed due to the Pride Parade" as stated in the report. However, Son Dakika Haberleri later updated that despite the police blockades and prevention at Taksim, the parade event ultimately took place in the city's Kadıköy district according to this report.