'National Security' block on news about illegal structures on the Bosphorus
News reports regarding famous establishments on the Bosphorus, for which demolition began following a decision by the Monuments Board, have been blocked from access by a ruling from the Istanbul 4th Criminal Court of Peace. The grounds cited were "national security" and "public order."
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Acting upon a report from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Monuments Board identified approximately 300 illegal structures along the Bosphorus line. Among these structures are iconic and tourist-frequented establishments of Istanbul, such as Bebek Balıkçısı, Baylan Pastanesi, Bebek Otel, Arnavutköy Balıkçısı, Mandarin Otel, and Ottoman Otel.
Following the assessment, the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Committee issued a demolition order for the structures in question.
DEMOLITIONS HAVE BEGUN: FIRST STOP BAYLAN PASTANESİ
Following the decision, demolition operations commenced. The first point of demolition was Baylan Pastanesi, one of Istanbul's landmark venues. It was reported that other establishments are next in line following the demolition. The demolitions are continuing under the escort of police and municipal police teams, with extensive security measures taken in the surrounding area.
ACCESS BLOCK ON NEWS: GROUNDS ARE “NATIONAL SECURITY”
According to the Freedom of Expression Association, the Istanbul 4th Criminal Court of Peace imposed an access block on news and content related to these demolitions with its decision dated July 11, 2025, and numbered 2025/7663. It was reported that the decision was taken under Article 8A of Law No. 5651, citing "national security," "public order," and "safety of life and property" as grounds.
WHAT DOES THE LAW SAY?
According to Law No. 5651, access blocks can be imposed upon the request of the Presidency or relevant ministries for reasons such as national security, public order, prevention of crime, or general health. Such decisions taken by a Criminal Court of Peace or relevant authorities must be implemented within 4 hours at the latest.