A pro-feminist march caused tensions in Turkey.

Thousands of women rallied through the streets for the annual Feminist Night March, defying a government ban and a heavy police presence in Beyoglu, Istanbul, on March 8.

Authorities had blocked access to Taksim Square and surrounding areas with metal barricades, preventing entry and enforcing strict exit controls.

Footage shows demonstrators filling Sıraselviler Street, chanting slogans, saying: ‘Jin, jiyan, azadi' (Woman, Life, Freedom) and ‘We won't stay silent, we won't fear, we won't obey.'

Police warned the protesters that their chants were illegal, but they defiantly blew whistles in response.

As the event progressed, the crowd continued their chants, also saying: ‘You will never walk alone.'

The event ended with a press statement in Arabic, Kurdish, and Turkish, emphasizing the global impact of feminist movements.

Organisers, during the demonstration, said: ‘We will not remain silent. We will not stop until we build a free world.'

The statement condemned government restrictions on women's rights, media suppression, and gender-based violence.

It also highlighted feminist struggles worldwide, mentioning women in Argentina, the Middle East, and the United States, who continue to resist oppression.

As demonstrators dispersed, police moved in, detaining dozens. Organizers reported that at least 200 protesters were surrounded by security forces, with 112 individuals taken into custody.