Turkish singer denied entry to Greece

On Good Friday, Turkish Cypriot singer Isin Karaca was denied entry to Greece upon her arrival at Athens International Airport. Greek authorities barred her from entering the country, while her husband and daughter were permitted to proceed. Karaca stated that the decision was linked to her performance of the 'Izmir March' and remarks made during an event in Komotini in the summer of 2024. The 'Izmir March' is considered provocative by many in Greece due to its historical association with the 1922 destruction of Smyrna. Karaca alleged that she was treated poorly by airport staff and denied water, though she later affirmed she would repeat her actions and stands by her previous statements. Sources described her as an undesirable person due to her public conduct. The incident occurred amidst ongoing sensitivities regarding the Western Thrace region. Karaca expressed her continued devotion to the Republic of Turkey following the incident.