Turkish police raided the offices of the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), firing tear gas and rubber bullets at the scene. The operation came days after a court ruling removed the party’s leaders, marking a further escalation in Turkey’s political crisis.

According to the Associated Press, large numbers of riot police forced their way into the CHP building, clashing with party staff. The opposition had previously vowed to defy the court ruling that ordered the removal of its leadership.

The CHP is Turkey’s oldest political party and the largest opposition force in parliament. The judicial decision to remove its leaders has sparked widespread democratic concerns, with critics arguing the move aims to weaken the opposition’s political influence.

The EU and several international human rights organizations expressed concern over the Turkish authorities’ actions, calling for respect for the rule of law and party freedom. Analysts warn this episode could intensify political polarization within Turkey and negatively affect the country’s relations with Western nations.

Opposition members said on social media that despite the heavy-handed crackdown, they would continue to push for democracy and would not yield to political persecution.