Turkey imposed a shutdown on major social media platforms following a deadly terrorist attack on TUSAS, the country’s aerospace and defense headquarters in Ankara, on Wednesday. The incident resulted in five fatalities and more than 20 injuries. Platforms including X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok were blocked as part of a media lockdown initiated shortly after the attack.
NetBlocks, an organization monitoring internet access and cybersecurity worldwide, confirmed the restrictions in Turkey via a post on X, stating, “Live metrics show social media platforms including X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok have been restricted in #Turkey.” Additionally, a broadcast ban has been implemented concerning the events at the Turkish Aerospace Industries’ complex.
Eyewitnesses reported a large explosion followed by gunfire, with smoke rising above the site and visible damage to several buildings outside the facility. According to Turkey’s Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, two attackers, identified as a man and a woman, were killed in the assault. Defense Minister Yasar Guler suggested that the attack may have been orchestrated by the militant Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).
The timeline for lifting the social media restrictions remains uncertain.
