Fact Check: Over 50 people detained at Istanbul's banned LGBTQ Pride parade.

Fact Check: "Over 50 people detained at Istanbul's banned LGBTQ Pride parade"

What We Know

On June 29, 2025, Turkish police detained over 50 individuals during an attempted Pride parade in Istanbul, which had been banned by authorities. Reports indicate that police arrested at least 30 people initially, with subsequent reports confirming that the total number of detainees exceeded 50 (Reuters, Le Monde, ABC News). This event is part of a broader crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights in Turkey, particularly against Pride events, which have faced increasing restrictions in recent years (The Guardian).

Analysis

The claim that "over 50 people were detained" is corroborated by multiple credible news sources. For instance, Le Monde and ABC News both reported that more than 50 individuals were arrested during the event. The reports highlight the ongoing tension between the Turkish government and LGBTQ+ communities, emphasizing that such detentions are not isolated incidents but part of a larger pattern of repression against Pride events in Turkey.

The reliability of these sources is generally high, as they are established news organizations with a history of covering international events. However, it is important to note that the exact number of detainees can vary slightly between reports, which is common in fast-developing news situations. For example, while Reuters initially reported 30 arrests, later reports from ABC News and The Guardian confirmed that the number exceeded 50. This discrepancy may arise from the timing of the reports or the evolving nature of the situation on the ground.

Conclusion

Verdict: Needs Research
While multiple credible sources confirm that over 50 people were detained at the banned Pride parade in Istanbul, the situation is fluid, and further verification may be needed as more information becomes available. The context of ongoing repression against LGBTQ+ rights in Turkey adds complexity to the situation, warranting a deeper investigation into the implications of these detentions and the broader socio-political environment.

Fact Check: Over 50 people detained at Istanbul's banned LGBTQ Pride parade.