Turkey, US in row over Erdogan’s remarks on Israel

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s strong-worded criticism against Israel and the United States over the former’s military operations in Gaza has transformed into a diplomatic spat between Ankara and Washington, with Erdogan calling for the U.S. to be “self-critical” over its Israel policy.

“If America is still saying that ‘Israel is using its right to self-defense’ then it should be critical of itself. It’s America who is offensive,” Erdogan told TGRT on July 20 in an interview.

Third person killed in Turkey protests

Ethem Sarisülük, a Turkish activist who was wounded in the head during Taksim Gezi Park clashes in the capital city of Ankara, has succumbed to his injuries, a representative of the Turkish Medical Association (TTB) said during a press meeting in Ankara today.

Sarisülük, whose brain death was declared earlier, became the third person killed in protests, the representative said after a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Bülent Arinç.

Explosions outside Turkey's justice ministry

Two devices have exploded outside Turkey's justice ministry and offices of the ruling AK Party in the capital Ankara, days ahead of an expected ceasefire with Kurdish rebels.

Turkish television stations on Tuesday showed footage of police cordoning off streets and ambulances arriving. CNN Turk said at least two people were wounded.