Tag: Turkey

Turkey Says Black Box Analysis, Initial Findings on Cargo Plane Crash to Take at Least Two Months

ANKARA (Reuters) -Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler said on Monday it would take at least two months to reach initial findings and analyse the black box of a Turkish cargo plane that crashed in Georgia last week and left 20 soldiers dead.

The C-130 cargo aircraft had left Azerbaijan for Turkey and crashed in Georgia, marking the NATO member’s highest military death toll since 2020. Ankara has said it was investigating the cause of the crash.

Speaking to reporters after a cabinet meeting in Ankara, Guler said the black box of the aircraft was being inspected by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS), adding that despite the crash, the C-130 planes – which Turkey has been operating since 1957 – were “generally safe”.

“According to preliminary findings, although not definitive, the tail breaks off first. It then splits into three. This will be found in the (inspection of the) black box,” he said, and added that, apart from an engine fire in 1999 after which the aircraft had landed safely, there had been no issues with the C-130s.

Turkey’s defence ministry said last week the aircraft was carrying a 10-person maintenance team for Turkish F-16s that had earlier taken part in Victory Day celebrations in Azerbaijan, as well as the flight crew and maintenance equipment.

Turkey’s defence ministry announced last month an agreement with Britain to procure 12 C-130 aircraft that need to undergo modernisation and maintenance.

It also said last week that the crashed plane was bought from Saudi Arabia in 2012, started flights in 2022, and completed its last maintenance a month ago, adding all planned flights by Turkey’s 18 C-130s were suspended pending inspection.

(Reporting by Huseyin Hayatsever; Writing by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Editing by Toby Chopra)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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November 17, 2025
Australia Rules Out Co-Hosting Climate Summit With Turkey

By Christine Chen and Renju Jose

SYDNEY (Reuters) -Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Monday that Australia would not co-host the COP31 climate summit with Turkey amid an ongoing stalemate between the two countries.

Turkey has proposed jointly leading next year’s U.N. climate summit with Australia and the discussions on the hosting standoff remain unresolved, Turkish diplomatic sources told Reuters on Sunday.

“No, we won’t be co-hosting because co-hosting isn’t provided for under the rules of the (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change),” Albanese said during a media briefing in Melbourne.

“So that’s not an option and people are aware that it is not an option, which is why it has been ruled out.”

Australia and Turkey both submitted bids in 2022 to host COP31 and neither has withdrawn, leading to an attention-sapping impasse that must be overcome at this year’s COP30 meeting currently taking place in Belem, Brazil.

The annual COP, or Conference of the Parties, is the world’s main forum for driving climate action. But it has grown over the years from diplomatic gatherings into vast trade shows where host countries can promote economic prospects.

The host matters because they set the agenda and lead the diplomacy needed to reach global agreements.

Albanese this month wrote to Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in an attempt to resolve the tussle as he pushes to host the summit with Pacific island nations for the first time.

A regional diplomatic bloc of 18 countries, the Pacific Islands Forum, is backing Australia’s bid. Several Pacific island nations are at risk from rising seas.

(Reporting by Christine Chen and Renju Jose in Sydney; Editing by Tom Hogue and Stephen Coates)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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November 16, 2025
Ukraine Seeking Exchange of 1,200 Prisoners With Russia

(Reuters) -Ukraine is working to resume the exchange of prisoners with Russia, hoping for the release of 1,200 Ukrainians, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and his Security Council chief said.

“We are … counting on the resumption of exchanges,” Zelenskiy said in a video posted on the Telegram messaging app on Sunday. “Many meetings, negotiations and calls are now devoted to this.”

His security chief, Rustem Umerov, said on Saturday that he had held consultations in Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, with the support of Kyiv’s partners, on resuming the process of exchanges.

“As a result of these negotiations, the parties agreed to return to the Istanbul agreements,” he said. “This concerns the release of 1,200 Ukrainians,” Umerov said in a statement on Telegram.

There was no immediate comment from Moscow to Ukraine’s statements.

The Istanbul agreements are prisoner-exchange understandings brokered with Turkish mediation in 2022, setting out rules for large, coordinated swaps between Russia and Ukraine.

Since then, the two have traded thousands of prisoners, though exchanges have been sporadic and often disrupted by frontline escalation in the war Russia launched against Ukraine in February 2022.

Umerov said that consultations would take place in the near future to decide the procedural and organisational details of the process.

“We are working without pause so that Ukrainians who are to return from captivity can celebrate New Year and Christmas at home – at the family table and with their loved ones,” Umerov said.

(Reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by William Mallard)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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November 15, 2025
Turkey Says Gaza Stabilisation Force Must Guarantee Lasting Ceasefire

ANKARA (Reuters) -Turkey’s main expectation from a planned International Stabilisation Force in Gaza is for it to provide guarantees that the fragile ceasefire will last, its Defence Ministry said on Thursday.

NATO member Turkey has been one of the most vocal critics of Israel’s devastating two-year assault on Gaza, calling it a genocide. It has emerged as a critical player and mediator in ceasefire efforts, voicing a desire to join the stabilisation force despite Israel’s repeated objections.

At a briefing in Ankara, the ministry also said Turkey believed the U.S.-led Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) must ensure unhindered humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza in line with international law.

(Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Editing by Jonathan Spicer)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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November 13, 2025
Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey – Simply Scratch
Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey is simple and delicious! A whole turkey with rosemary and sage tucked between the turkey skin and breast is stuffed with apples, onion and garlic and roasted to perfection. Once roasted it is then brushed with apple jelly for a sweet simple glaze. This recipe will serve about 10 to 12.

I made the most incredible turkey last weekend.

I’m a little behind on my thanksgiving posts because Malloree was under the weather and between the doctors visits and trips to the pharmacy, I got behind. However it’s not too late to schedule this turkey for your Thanksgiving. It’s super easy and the results are perfection.

Minced fresh rosemary and sage is tucked along with butter under the skin of each breast. Then apple, onion, garlic and celery are stuffed in the cavity before tying the legs and brushing the entire turkey with melted butter. You can never go wrong where butter is involved.

But the best part is that after the turkey has roasted, you brush it with apple jelly for a touch of sweetness that pairs amazingly well with the herbs. Pan drippings make pretty darn good gravy too. But that’s a whole other post.

To Make This Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey You Will Need:
- whole turkey
- sage
- rosemary
- butter
- apple
- onion
- celery
- head of garlic
- apple jelly
How Long Should You Thaw A Turkey For?

To thaw a 12-pound turkey, you will need 1 day for every 4 to 5 pounds. In other words, plan on 3 to 4 days. Keep the turkey in it’s original packaging and place in your fridge to thaw safely.

Basic Tools you Will Need When making a turkey:
- roasting pan (with a rack preferably)
- kitchen string
- turkey baster
- instant read thermometer
- fat separator (if making gravy)
How Long Does It Take To Roast A Turkey?

For a 12 to 14 pound turkey it takes 3 to 3 hours and 45 minutes OR until a doneness temp of 170° taken in the thickest part of the thigh.

Move your oven rack to the lowest position and preheat your oven to 325℉ (160℃).

Then finely chop 1/4 cup each fresh sage and rosemary and combine them together.

Remove the neck and gizzards (set aside if using for giblet gravy or stuffing) and pat your turkey dry (inside and out) with paper towels. Using your fingers, carefully loosen the skin away from the turkey breast.

Creating little pocket.

Divide the herbs among each breast “pocket” and stuff two tablespoons of salted butter in each one as well. Try to get it as far into the breast pocket as possible.

Secure the skin with a toothpick.

Next prep the aromatics. Cut an apple into fourths (I’m using a honeycrisp), cut the onion, garlic and celery ribs in half.

Place the turkey, breast side up, onto a roasting rack that’s set into a roasting pan. Stuff the turkey with the apple, onion, garlic and celery.

Secure or truss the legs with kitchen string.

Tuck the wings under the turkey.

Brush the entire turkey with with melted butter.

Slide the turkey into the oven with the legs at the back of the oven and roast for 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Once that time is up, remove the turkey and baste it with the drippings from the pan.

If your turkey is getting too brown too quickly, cover with foil.

Keep in mind, where the herbs are it will look darker.

Continue roasting for another 1 to 1 hour 30 minutes or until an instant read thermometer reads 170℉ to 175℉ (or 76℃ to 79℃) when an instant thermometer is inserted in the thickest part of the thigh.

GORGEOUS! And it smells heavenly.

Carefully transfer your turkey to a carving board.

Heat up 1/2 cup apple jelly.

And brush your turkey with the warm apple jelly.

Cover loosely with foil and let rest for 30 minute or up to 1 hour.

Serve, carve and prepare to fall in love.

What To Serve With Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey?

Enjoy! And if you give this Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey recipe a try, let me know! Snap a photo and tag me on twitter or instagram!
Yield: 10 servings

Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey

Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey is simple and delicious! A whole turkey with rosemary and sage tucked between the turkey skin and breast is stuffed with apples, onion and garlic and roasted to perfection. Once roasted it is then brushed with apple jelly for a sweet simple glaze. This recipe will serve about 10 to 12.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

thaw time: 3 days

12 pound turkey, completely thawed if frozen

4 tablespoons cold salted butter

1/4 cup minced fresh sage

1/4 cup minced fresh rosemary leaves

1 medium honeycrisp apple, quartered

1 medium yellow onion, halved

1 head garlic, halved

1 rib celery, halved or quartered

1/2 cup melted salted butter

1/2 cup apple jelly, warmed

MAKE YOUR TURKEY:

Start by moving your oven rack to the lowest position and preheat your oven to 325℉ (160℃).

Remove the neck and gizzards (set aside if using for gravy or stuffing) and pat your turkey dry (inside and out) with paper towels. Using your fingers, carefully loosen the skin away from the turkey breast. Creating little pocket. Divide the herbs among each breast “pocket” and stuff two tablespoons of salted butter in each one as well. Try to get it as far into the breast pocket as possible.Secure the skin underneath the breast with a toothpick.

Place the turkey breast side up onto a roasting rack that’s set into a roasting pan. Stuff the turkey with the apple, onion, garlic and celery. Secure or truss the legs with kitchen string. Tuck the wings under the turkey. Brush the entire turkey with with melted butter.

Roast your turkey for 1 hour 30 minutes. If it browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.

Once your turkey has roasted for the hour and half, remove and baste with the turkey drippings.

Continue roasting for another 1 hour up to 1 hour and 30 minutes or until an instant read thermometer reads 170℉ to 175℉ (or 76℃ to 79℃) when an instant thermometer is inserted in the thickest part of the thigh.

Carefully transfer your turkey to a carving board and brush with warm apple jelly before tenting with foil and resting for 30 minutes.

Carve your turkey and serve.

Nutrition Disclaimer: All information presented on this site is intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information shared on SimplyScratch.com should only be used as a general guideline.

Serving: 1serving, Calories: 732kcal, Carbohydrates: 17g, Protein: 84g, Fat: 35g, Saturated Fat: 14g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g, Monounsaturated Fat: 11g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 313mg, Sodium: 483mg, Potassium: 944mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 11g, Vitamin A: 403IU, Vitamin C: 5mg, Calcium: 67mg, Iron: 4mg

Author: Laurie McNamara

Course: Mains & Entrees

Cuisine: American
This recipe was adapted from Taste of Home and originally posted on this blog on November 17th, 2021 and has been updated with clear and concise instructions, new photography and helpful information.
This post may contain affiliate links.

Laurie McNamara

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November 11, 2025
Houston Restaurants Open for Thanksgiving 2025 – Houston Press

This Thanksgiving — coming up on Thursday, November 28 — skip the stress of cooking and let Houston’s top restaurants treat you to a festive feast. From family-friendly affairs featuring classic roast turkey and all the fixin’s to prix fixe menus featuring bubbles, oysters and TK, here is where to celebrate the season of gratitude with a tasty meal in Houston this year.

The Audrey, 9595 Six Pines

Celebrate Thanksgiving November 27 from 2 to 9 p.m. with a three-course prix fixe featuring roasted parsnip bisque, herb-roasted turkey or chateaubriand and pumpkin pie. Cost is $55–$65 for adults and $18–25 for kids.

Bar Bludorn, 9061 Gaylord

The neighborhood taver is offering a three-course pre-fixe Thanksgiving menu ($75 per person), with a two-course children’s menu for $55. Guests can enjoy holiday classics like roast turkey, squash soup, and stuffing, alongside Bar Bludorn specialties including country ham beignets, steak tartare, steak frites and mushroom ravioli.

Bludorn, 807 Taft

Enjoy a special three-course Thanksgiving dinner of traditional favorites like roast turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie, alongside Bludorn signatures such as steak tartare, hanger steak and Oysters Everyway. The three-course menu is $105 per person, with a two-course children’s menu available for $55.

Brennan’s, 3300 Smith
Enjoy a three-course prix fixe feast of Creole and holiday classics in a cozy, festive atmosphere, open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; reservations required. Cost is $87 per person plus tax and tip. Call 713-522-9711.

Duck N Bao, multiple locations

Create your own Chinese-inspired Thanksgiving with crispy-skinned Peking duck, soup dumplings, specialty rice, noodles, seafood and vegetable plates. Open regular hours; walk-ins welcome.

Etoile Cuisine et Bar, 1101-11 Uptown Park

Étoile will be open for Thanksgiving with a special three-course menu ($78 per adult, $28 per child, plus tax and gratuity) — expect seasonal hors d’oeuvres like butternut squash soup with orange zest, Scottish smoked salmon with dill cream, or chilled shrimp with tarragon cocktail sauce; main courses including free-range roasted turkey with all the classics, braised Akaushi beef, Iberico pork skirt steak, seared salmon, or a fall vegetable risotto with white truffle oil; and vanilla bourbon pecan pie or warm pear and brioche pudding with chocolate sorbet.

Hongdae 33, 9889 Bellaire
Break from tradition with all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue in a vibrant, high-energy space. $33 per person for 90 minutes of unlimited food; a la carte drinks available. Walk-ins welcome; no reservations needed.

Leo’s River Oaks, 2009 West Gray

Guests can dine in style a three-course prix fixe from 2 to 9pm with — choose herb-roasted turkey ($75) or filet mignon ($85) with refined sides and pumpkin pie. Kids’ menu available.

Navy Blue, 2445 Times

The modern American seafood restaurant is hosting a festive three-course Thanksgiving dinner. Guests can choose from signature dishes like crab cakes, seafood gumbo, and seared scallops, as well as seasonal specials including roasted turkey roulade with puff pastry and sweet potato, and hanger steak with kale, bone marrow butter, and sauce bordelaise. The three-course menu is $85 per person, with a two-course children’s menu available for $55.

Rainbow Lodge, 2011 Ella

Celebrate Thanksgiving in lodge-style comfort with a three-course menu ($85 per adult, $45 child, plus beverages, tax and gratuity). Highlights include smoked duck gumbo, wild game tasting, Southern-style roast turkey with cornbread dressing and indulgent desserts like warm croissant bread pudding. Late-night snack packs with turkey, dressing, and gravy are also available to-go.

Remi, 1080 Uptown Park

Hotel Granduca’s Remi is offering a pre-fixe Thanksgiving menu with oven-roasted heritage turkey, truffled mac and cheese, spiced pumpkin tarts and artisanal apple Dutch pies in an elegant setting. Seating runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for $105/adult and $54/children 10+. Reservations required via OpenTable or at 713-418-1000.

Roma, 2347 University

Enjoy a three-course Thanksgiving meal with Italian twists ($55 adults, $25 kids, $35 optional wine pairing), with options from butternut squash soup and hand-carved turkey breast to pecan pie or pumpkin pie.

Tipping Point Restaurant and Terrace, 9787 Katy Freeway

Tipping Point will be open on Thanksgiving with a special a la carte or three-course menu for $75. Highlights include raspberry brie en croute, lamb duo with apple chutney, slow-roasted turkey with green beans, cornbread stuffing, rosemary mashed potatoes and a yeast roll, roasted rack of lamb and pecan pie.

Winsome Prime, 5888 Westheimer

Winsome Prime will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a select menu of customer favorites and holiday specials.

This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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Brooke Viggiano

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November 11, 2025
U.S. Backs EU Using Frozen Russian Assets to Help End War, U.S. Source Says

(Reuters) -The United States fully backs the European Union using frozen Russian assets as a tool to support Ukraine and end the war with Russia, a U.S. source familiar with the situation told Reuters on Friday.

As the West seeks to ramp up pressure on Moscow, the European Commission has proposed a plan allowing EU governments to use up to 185 billion euros ($217 billion) – most of the 210 billion euros worth of Russian sovereign assets currently frozen in Europe – without confiscating them.

Washington “absolutely supports (the EU) and the steps they’re taking right now to be in a position to make use of those assets as a tool,” the source said, requesting anonymity to discuss an ongoing issue.

After Russian President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in 2022, the United States and its allies prohibited transactions with Russia’s central bank and finance ministry, immobilizing around $300 billion of sovereign Russian assets.

The European proposal is being held up due to concerns from Belgium, where most of the assets are located.

Germany suggested on Friday that recent drone sightings over airports and military bases in Belgium were a message from Moscow not to touch the frozen assets. Moscow has denied any connection to the incidents and has promised a “painful response” if its assets are seized.

In a renewed attempt to end Russia’s war, U.S. President Donald Trump hit Rosneft and Lukoil, its two biggest oil companies, with sanctions late last month, adding to an unprecedented basket of economic sanctions that seek to pressure Moscow and those doing business with it.

The move underlined Washington’s intent to squeeze Russia’s finances and force the Kremlin towards a peace deal in its 3-1/2-year-old full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Washington is watching the fallout from the Rosneft and Lukoil move and “there are more things we could do to try to up the pressure,” the source said.

(Reporting by Jonathan Spicer; editing by Philippa Fletcher)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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November 7, 2025
Why Spatchcocking Is the Only Way You’ll Roast Turkey Again
With a little know-how and a few seasonings, this spatchcock turkey recipe will be your holiday go-to. A butterflied turkey is seasoned with oil, seasonings, and fresh herbs, and cooked to juicy perfection.

What is Spatchcock Turkey?

Simply put, spatchcocking means butterflying (flattening) a whole turkey so it cooks evenly all the way from the wing tips to the neck, while saving tons of oven time.
Flavor: Lean turkey stays juicy and tender with a savory, seasoned, crispy skin baked spatchcock-style.

Technique: Take the guesswork out of cooking a whole holiday turkey with the spatchcock method. It takes some prep, but the turkey cooks faster and more evenly.

Recommended Tools: Poultry shears are an indispensable tool for properly and cleanly removing the backbone (save that for turkey stock). A deep rim baking tray will capture all that juicy broth for making turkey gravy.
How to Spatchcock a Turkey
1. Using kitchen shears, cut the backbone out on both sides.
2. Run a knife along the breast bone in the center to “score” it.
3. Flip it over and flatten the turkey (full recipe below).
4. Tuck the wing tips under the turkey.
5. Season and cook per the recipe below.
How to Cook a Spatchcock Turkey
1. Remove neck and giblets (save with the backbone for broth or gravy).
2. Spatchcock the turkey as directed.
3. Combine oil and herbs, then brush over the top of the turkey with salt and pepper.
4. Roast (full recipe below) until the skin is browned and crispy.
5. Remove the bird from the oven, tent with foil, and let rest at least 15 minutes before carving.
How big should the turkey be?

I’ve used a turkey up to 20 pounds, but anything over 16 can be tricky since it’s hard to find a pan big enough for a spatchcocked bird.
I would suggest a turkey of about 10-14 lbs.

What seasonings should I use?

I like to keep it simple with fresh herbs and a bit of olive oil. You can add garlic powder but fresh garlic will burn at a high temperature.
I generally don’t use a wire rack, but sometimes I do put a few onion slices and celery ribs under the turkey for extra flavor.
Season the skin generously with kosher salt and black pepper.

What’s the best temperature to roast a turkey?

Flattening helps it cook evenly and perfectly every time. A high temperature seals in the juices and ensures crispy skin.
Roast at 450°F for a regular turkey.
Roast at 425°F for a butter-basted (or Butterball) turkey.
The turkey should be baked until a meat thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 165°F.
Like all roasted meats, rest the turkey for at least 15 minutes before you carve it.

How long to Spatchcock a turkey

You will want to roast the turkey for 1 ¼ hrs to 1 ½ hrs, or until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.

Turkey Dinner Must-Haves
Did you make this Spatchcock Turkey? Leave a rating and comment below.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Resting Time 15 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes

Remove neck and giblets from the turkey (and reserve for broth or gravy).

Place the turkey on a work surface, breast side down, so the backbone is facing up. Using poultry shears, cut along each side of the backbone to remove the backbone completely (reserve the bone for broth or gravy).

The breastbone is a hard ridge of bone in the center of the turkey where the two breasts meet. Score it with a sharp knife to make it easier to flatten the turkey.

Flip the turkey over, breast side up. Using your palms, press on the turkey to flatten it. You should hear the cartilage in the breastbone crack as it flattens.

Tuck the wing tips under or snip them off and reserve for gravy.

You can cover the turkey with plastic wrap and rest in the fridge for 2 hours or up to overnight. Discard any juices on the baking tray before roasting.*

Preheat oven to 450°F*. Combine olive oil and chopped fresh herbs. Set aside.

Arrange the turkey on a baking sheet with a large rim. Dab the skin dry with paper towels. Brush with the olive oil mixture and season well with salt and pepper.

Roast the turkey for 1 ¼ hrs to 1 ½ hrs or until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.

Remove from the oven and loosely tent with foil. Rest at least 15 minutes before carving.

Turkey

If using a butter-basted turkey, reduce oven temperature to 425°F.

Cutting the turkey and letting it rest allows for some of the juices to drain. This step is optional.

I’ve used a turkey up to 20lbs but it’s really hard to find a pan that fits a spatchcocked turkey larger than 16lbs. I would suggest a turkey about 12 lbs.

Ask the butcher if they’ll cut the backbone out for you, many of them will and it will make your job a lot easier.

Roasting Pan

Make sure your roasting pan has a fairly deep rim as the turkey will have drippings that you’ll want for gravy!

I generally don’t use a wire rack but sometimes I do put a few onion slices and celery ribs under the turkey for extra flavor.

Calories: 401 | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 47g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 154mg | Sodium: 241mg | Potassium: 508mg | Vitamin A: 120IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 2.2mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Course Entree, Main Course, Turkey

Cuisine American

© SpendWithPennies.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.
Holly Nilsson

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November 7, 2025
Ex-Playboy Bunny Reveals Cosmetic Procedure Nightmare! Assaulted While Her Eyes Were Bandaged! – Perez Hilton

[Warning: Potentially Triggering Content]

A model and ex-Playboy Bunny is opening up about a terrifying attack she suffered while in a completely vulnerable state. This is not the kind of complication we usually hear about after cosmetic surgery…

Carla Howe, who served as a Bunny and lived in the infamous Playboy Mansion with Hugh Hefner before his death, revealed on Wednesday she was sexually assaulted after undergoing a recent cosmetic surgery.

@carlahoweofficial_

✌???? #christmas #playboymansion #hughhefner #playboy #model #fypシ #trending

♬ All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey

The 35-year-old told The US Sun she traveled from London to Istanbul, Turkey last week to undergo a fox eye lift — a procedure designed to elongate eyes. It’s standard practice for patients to have their eyes bandaged immediately following the surgery for protection — but for Carla, she was unfortunately anything but safe.

Related: ‘Human Barbie’ Influencer Dead At 31 Under Suspicious Circumstances

The model revealed to the outlet that while laying in her hospital bed recovering the following day — ice patches covering her eyes, so she couldn’t see — she felt someone creeping around her:

“I was lying in my hospital bed with iced patches over my eyes. I could hear a noise to my right of the hospital bed. I obviously thought it must just be the nurses or something.”

From there, things took a traumatizing turn:

“I felt the duvet being lifted around my breast area. I shot up immediately and shouted, ‘Excuse me!’”

Carla revealed she was completely naked under the blanket when the stranger attempted to touch her… But when she confronted them, they made a mad dash for the exit:

“I immediately pressed the red buzzer and called the Turkish police.”

We guess they thought they wouldn’t get caught. But within 25 minutes, authorities arrived and began combing through security footage at the Acibadem Taksim Hospital. And what they found was chilling:

“They came straight to the hospital and checked the CCTV. They identified the suspect, who was apparently a hospital worker.”

An EMPLOYEE of the hospital?! That is so sickening. What an invasion.

Cops arrested the male suspect, and Carla is planning to press charges:

“It is very scary. I don’t feel like, as a British female person, that it is safe in Turkey. If I didn’t feel the blanket being lifted, God knows what would’ve happened — I have an angel.”

Ever since the traumatizing situation, she hasn’t been able to shake the feeling that the suspect had done this before:

“My first thought was, ‘Oh my God, has he been in here before and I didn’t see him?’ No male should have access to a [female patient’s] room. If I didn’t wake up there and then — I’m assuming the worker thought I was unconscious because of the patches on my eyes — I could’ve been sexually assaulted or God knows what could have happened.”

She added:

“I’m just glad that I was awake, because if I wasn’t, I don’t know what would have happened to me.”

Now, she just wants other women to be aware of the potential dangers:

“The whole thing has left me terrified. It was supposed to be a quick, simple recovery — not this.”

Following the debacle, a Foreign Office spokesperson told the outlet:

“We are supporting a British national following an incident in Turkey.”

Our hearts are with Carla as she tries to recover from the scary incident! We’re so glad she was actually awake…

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence and would like to learn more about resources, consider checking out https://www.rainn.org/resources

[Images via Carla Howe/TikTok]

Perez Hilton

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November 5, 2025
Iraq, Turkey sign deal on Iraqi water infrastructure projects

The initial batch of projects will include three water harvesting dams and three land reclamation initiatives, according to an Iraqi water resources official.

Iraq signed a deal with Turkey on Sunday under which water infrastructure projects to be carried out by Turkish firms will be financed with revenue from oil sales, a Turkish official said.

The Iraqi prime minister’s office said in a statement that the two countries had signed an accord on an implementation mechanism for a water cooperation agreement that they sealed last year. It did not provide details on the mechanism.

New committee to be established for projects

Iraq’s government will establish a committee for water infrastructure projects and invite bids for them from Turkish companies, with payments for the projects to be financed by revenue from Iraqi oil sales to Turkey, the Turkish official said.

The initial batch of projects expected under the agreement includes three water harvesting dam projects and three land reclamation initiatives, an Iraqi water resources official said.

The original framework water agreement was signed in April 2024 during a visit to Baghdad by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, which marked a new phase of better relations between the two neighbors after years of strained ties.

Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan sign mutual agreements during their meeting in Baghdad, Iraq April 22, 2024. (credit: Ahmad Al-Rubaye/Pool via REUTERS)

Scarce water resources in Iraq have long been an issue between the two countries, with around 70% of Iraq’s water resources flowing from neighboring countries, especially via the Tigris and the Euphrates rivers. Both flow through Turkey.

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November 2, 2025
Iraq, Turkey Sign Deal on Iraqi Water Infrastructure Projects

BAGHDAD (Reuters) -Iraq signed a deal with Turkey on Sunday under which water infrastructure projects to be carried out by Turkish firms will be financed with revenue from oil sales, a Turkish official said.

The Iraqi prime minister’s office said in a statement that the two countries had signed an accord on an implementation mechanism for a water cooperation agreement that they sealed last year. It did not provide details on the mechanism.

Iraq’s government will establish a committee for water infrastructure projects and invite bids for them from Turkish companies, with payments for the projects to be financed by revenue from Iraqi oil sales to Turkey, the Turkish official said.

The initial batch of projects expected under the agreement includes three water harvesting dam projects and three land reclamation initiatives, an Iraqi water resources official said.

The original framework water agreement was signed in April 2024 during a visit to Baghdad by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, which marked a new phase of better relations between the two neighbours after years of strained ties.

Scarce water resources in Iraq have long been an issue between the two countries, with around 70% of Iraq’s water resources flowing from neighbouring countries, especially via the Tigris and the Euphrates rivers. Both flow through Turkey.

(Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu in Ankara and Ahmed Rasheed in Baghdad; Writing by Daren Butler; Editing by Jan Harvey)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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November 2, 2025
Australia PM Writes to Turkey’s Erdogan About COP31 Hosting Standoff

SYDNEY (Reuters) -Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Sunday that he wrote to Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to resolve a long-running tussle over who will host next year’s COP31 summit.

Australia and Turkey submitted bids in 2022 to host the United Nations climate conference and both countries have refused to concede to the other ever since.

Asked on Sunday if he thought Australia would end up as host, Albanese said: “There’s no real process for finalising the matter. I’ve written to President Erdogan of Türkiye, we’re continuing to engage.”

“It’s hard when there’s no consensus, when you’ve got two bids. Our bid, of course, is in partnership with the Pacific,” Albanese added, according to an official transcript of remarks on Sky News television.

A regional diplomatic bloc of 18 countries, the Pacific Islands Forum, is backing Australia’s bid. Several Pacific island nations are at risk from rising seas.

Albanese said Australia wanted to ensure Pacific island nations’ interests are protected.

“They’re particularly vulnerable to climate change. For them, countries like Tuvalu and Kiribati, this is an existential threat to their very existence, which is why this is such a strong issue in our region,” he said.

Turkey has previously argued its Mediterranean location would help reduce emissions from flights bringing delegates to the conference, and has pointed out its smaller oil and gas industry compared to Australia.

In July, the UN urged Australia and Turkey to resolve the hosting standoff, calling the delay unhelpful and unnecessary. It had set a deadline of June for the group to reach consensus.

The annual talks rotate through five regional groups, with COP31’s host needing to be unanimously agreed upon by the 28 members of the Western Europe and Others Group bloc.

(Reporting by Sam McKeith in SydneyEditing by Rod Nickel)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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November 1, 2025
Pakistan, Afghanistan Agree to Continue Ceasefire, Turkey Says

By Tuvan Gumrukcu and Sayed Hassib

ISTANBUL (Reuters) -Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed on Thursday to extend a ceasefire during talks in Istanbul after the worst border clashes between the neighbours in years, according to Turkey which mediated the talks along with Qatar.

The ceasefire began on October 19.

The two countries faced their most serious military confrontations since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover of Kabul, with deadly clashes this month triggering Pakistani airstrikes, Afghan retaliatory fire and the closure of key crossings used for trade and transit.

“All parties have agreed to put in place a monitoring and verification mechanism that will ensure maintenance of peace and impose penalties on the violating party,” Turkey’s Foreign Ministry said of the October 25–30 talks.

It added that a follow-up meeting would be held in Istanbul on November 6 to decide how the mechanism will be implemented, and that Turkey and Qatar “stand ready to continue cooperation with both sides for lasting peace and stability.”

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid issued a separate statement shortly before midnight in Istanbul confirming the conclusion of the talks and saying both sides had agreed to continue discussions in future meetings.

He said Afghanistan sought good relations with Pakistan “based on mutual respect and non-interference.”

Pakistan did not immediately comment.

BORDER CLASHES SPARKED AIRSTRIKES

The clashes erupted after Pakistan launched airstrikes inside Afghanistan against Pakistani Taliban militants it says are based there and responsible for attacks on its forces. Kabul condemned the strikes as a violation of its sovereignty and denies sheltering the group.

The border, which runs more than 2,600 km (1,600 miles), has long been a source of friction with frequent skirmishes and mutual accusations over militant sanctuaries.

(Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu in Ankara; Sayed Hassib in Kabul; Additional reporting by Ariba Shahid in Karachi; Writing by Daren Butler; Editing by Franklin Paul and Cynthia Osterman)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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October 30, 2025
Israel Won’t Accept Turkish Armed Forces in Gaza, Foreign Minister Says

JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israel won’t accept the presence of Turkish armed forces in Gaza under a U.S. plan to end war in the Palestinian territory for good, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Monday.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan includes an international force in Gaza to help secure a fragile ceasefire which began this month, halting two years of war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.

But it remains unclear whether Arab and other states will be ready to commit troops to the international force. “Countries that want or are ready to send armed forces should be at least fair to Israel,” Saar said at a news conference in Budapest.

Once warm Turkish-Israeli relations soured drastically during the Gaza war, with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan lambasting Israel’s devastating air and ground campaign in the small Palestinian enclave.

“Turkey, led by Erdogan, led a hostile approach against Israel,” Saar said, speaking alongside his Hungarian counterpart Peter Szijjarto. “So it is not reasonable for us to let their armed forces enter the Gaza Strip and we will not agree to that and we said it to our American friends,” Saar said.

While the Trump administration has ruled out sending U.S. soldiers into the Gaza Strip, it has been speaking to Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, Turkey and Azerbaijan to contribute to the multinational force.

Last week Netanyahu hinted that he would be strongly opposed to any role for Turkish security forces in Gaza. On Sunday, he said Israel would decide which foreign forces to allow in Gaza.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, on a visit to Israel aimed at shoring up the truce, said on Friday the international force would have to be made up of “countries that Israel’s comfortable with”. He made no comment on Turkish involvement.

(Reporting by Maayan Lubell; Editing by Aidan Lewis)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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October 27, 2025
Montenegro Detains Dozens of Turks, Azeris After Weekend Violence

PODGORICA (Reuters) -Police in Montenegro said on Monday they had detained dozens of Turkish and Azeri nationals after a weekend of violence triggered by the stabbing of a Montenegrin man in the capital Podgorica by a group of Turks.

President Jakov Milatovic has called for calm, while Prime Minister Milojko Spajic said his government would temporarily suspend a visa-free regime for Turkish nationals.

The Montenegrin man was stabbed on Saturday night after an exchange of insults with a group of Turkish citizens, though his injuries were not life-threatening.

Dozens of local people on Sunday retaliated by vandalising vehicles with Turkish number plates and at one point forced some Turkish citizens to barricade themselves in a casino.

The police said they had detained two people suspected of being involved in the stabbing incident, a Turkish national and an Azeri, as well as an additional 45 Turkish and Azeri citizens suspected of lacking legal residence documents.

They fined seven of those detained and ordered the deportation of eight others, police said in a statement.

Out of 100,000 foreign citizens registered permanently or temporarily in Montenegro, around 13,000 are Turks, Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic said.

Officials say there has been an increase in the number of Turkish citizens opening businesses or seeking work in Montenegro, a tiny Adriatic state of around 620,000 people heavily reliant on tourism, ahead of its expected accession in the coming years to the European Union.

“With the aim of preserving economic activity and good bilateral relations, we will initiate intensive discussions with the Republic of Turkey in the coming period to find, in the spirit of good cooperation and partnership, the best model (of visa arrangements) in our mutual interest,” Spajic said on X.

President Milatovic condemned the violence.

“There must be no room for collective guilt or the stigmatization of an entire people,” Milatovic said. “Montenegro needs a more responsible immigration policy: firm against abuses and crime, fair towards all who respect our laws.”

(Reporting by Stevo vasiljevic, writing by Daria Sito-Sucic; Editing by Gareth Jones)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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October 27, 2025
Chipotle White Bean Turkey Chili – Simply Scratch
Smoky and spicy, this Chipotle White Bean Turkey Chili is cozy comfort in a bowl. Sautéed onions, garlic and ground turkey is cooked with spices, white beans and tomato sauce for a quick and hearty meal. Serves 6 in under an hour.

The weather has been all over the place.

Once day it’s sunny and warm and then the next it’s cold, cloudy and rainy. It’s been unpredictable and yet, totally predictable because, hello it’s Michigan.

However, no matter what crazy fall or winter weather is happening outside, I’m always game for a bowl of chili. Because there’s nothing better than a bowl of chili to warm up with. This chipotle chili is leaner with ground turkey instead of beef, and a little meaner with a ground chipotle chili powder for that deliciously smoky, back-of-the-throat heat.

In under an hour you will enjoy a bowlful of hearty, smoky, soul warming chipotle white bean turkey chili. It’s the perfect thing after a day of yard work and raking up leaves.

To Make This Chipotle White Bean Turkey Chili You Will Need:
- olive oil – Helps to soften the onion when sautéing.
- yellow onion – Adds a subtle sweet onion flavor.
- garlic – Adds distinct punchy flavor.
- lean ground turkey – Or substitute with ground chicken or lean ground beef.
- chili powder – Adds distinct flavor and can be mild to moderately spicy.
- chipotle powder – Lends a smoky and earthy flavor.
- ground cumin – Lends earthiness and warmth, with an edge of citrus.
- dried oregano – I use mexican oregano, however regular will work just fine. Lends earthy and slightly bitter flavor.
- white beans – Use navy or great northern beans.
- tomato sauce – Adds a rich and tangy tomato flavor with a little acidity.
Add 2 teaspoons live oil into a deep-sided pan or dutch oven and heat over medium. Next, add in 1 cup of diced yellow onion, 3 cloves minced fresh garlic and a pinch of kosher salt.

Sauté until softened, stirring occasionally for about 8 to 10 minutes.

Then add in the 2 pounds of extra lean ground turkey.

Using a wooden spatula, break the ground turkey into small crumbles and cook until no longer pink.

Measure and add 2 teaspoons chili powder, 2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder, 1¼ teaspoons ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano.

Stir and cook for 1 more minute to open up those spices.

Add in the 3 cans of rinsed and drain white beans. Navy beans or great northern will work here.

If soaking your own beans, here’s my fool-proof method for soaking and cooking dried beans.

Lastly, add 2 (15 ounce) cans of tomato sauce along with a 1/2 cup of water, this will thin the chili out a smidge. I like to add the water to the empty can and swirl it around to pick up any leftover sauce.

Stir…

…until combined.

Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

YUM!

Spoon chili into bowls.

As we all know, chili is all about the toppings because they add texture and add flavor, making chili that much more delicious. So I highly suggest, topping your bowl of chili with sour cream or plain greek yogurt, shredded sharp white cheddar, sliced green onions, cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Lastly, and more importantly serve this chili with corn tortilla chips.

Get your spoons ready!

How To Freeze Chili And Reheat Later:
- COOL: make sure the chili is completely cool before freezing. Never place hot or very warm items in the freezer (or fridge!) as it can thaw and negatively affect the nearby food.
- PORTION: when cool, divide chili into portions. Whether it’s a single serving, two or four, portion the cooled chili into either freezer safe bags or air-tight containers. I prefer using freezer safe bags and removing as much air as possible, this helps with storing.
- FLATTEN: once portioned, lay flat on a rimmed baking sheet and freeze for a few hours. Like in this post.
- STORE: stack the flat frozen chili portions vertically or horizontally saving so much freezer space. Store chili in the freezer for up to 6 months.
- REHEAT: I prefer to thaw frozen chili overnight in the fridge. However you can soak in a sink of lukewarm water for 20 to 30 minutes – flip every so often and change out the water at least once or twice. You can also defrost in the microwave until thawed. Lastly, add thawed chili to saucepan or dutch oven and heat until thoroughly heated throughout.
For more delicious chili recipes click HERE!

Enjoy! And if you give this Chipotle White Bean Turkey Chili recipe a try, let me know! Snap a photo and tag me on twitter or instagram!
Yield: 6 servings

Chipotle White Bean Turkey Chili

Smoky and spicy, this Chipotle White Bean Turkey Chili is cozy comfort in a bowl. Sautéed onions, garlic and ground turkey is cooked with spices, white beans and tomato sauce for a quick and hearty meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Additional Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

FOR THE CHILI:

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

2 pounds lean ground turkey, or sub with ground chicken or lean ground beef

2 teaspoons chili powder

2 teaspoons ground chipotle powder

2 teaspoons kosher salt, more or less to taste

1¼ teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

3 (15 ounce) cans great northern beans or navy beans, rinsed and drained

2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce

FOR SERVING (optional):

cilantro, chopped

plain nonfat greek yogurt or sour cream

grated extra sharp white cheddar cheese

lime wedges

tortilla chips

Add oil to a deep sided pan or Dutch oven and preheat over medium heat.

Add in onion, garlic and a pinch of salt, and sauté for 8-10 minutes or until soft.

Next add the ground turkey, use a wooden spatula to break up into small crumbles. Cook until no longer pink.

Measure and add in chili powder, chipotle powder, salt, cumin and oregano. Stir and cook for 1 minute.

Add in the beans, tomato sauce and roughly 1/2 cup of water.Note: I like to add the water to the empty cans and swirl it around to catch and pick up any leftover sauce.

Stir, cover and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.

Spoon chili into bowls and top with desired toppings.

Nutrition Disclaimer: All information presented on this site is intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information shared on SimplyScratch.com should only be used as a general guideline.
Note: The nutritional value is for the chili ONLY and does not include any toppings.

Serving: 1generous cup, Calories: 481kcal, Carbohydrates: 56g, Protein: 56g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.02g, Cholesterol: 83mg, Sodium: 1552mg, Potassium: 1767mg, Fiber: 18g, Sugar: 6g, Vitamin A: 1058IU, Vitamin C: 15mg, Calcium: 187mg, Iron: 8mg

Author: Laurie McNamara

Course: Soups, Stews & Chilis

Cuisine: Tex Mex
This recipe was originally posted on October 15th, 2014 and has been updated with clear and concise instructions, new photography and helpful information.
This post may contain affiliate links.

Laurie McNamara

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October 26, 2025
Pakistan Reports Border Clashes During Talks With Afghanistan

KARACHI (Reuters) -Five Pakistani soldiers and 25 militants have died in clashes near the border with Afghanistan, the military said on Sunday, as delegations from both countries met to try to defuse tensions after the deadliest fighting in years.

The militants tried to cross over from Afghanistan on Friday and Saturday in Kurram and North Waziristan districts, rugged areas along Pakistan’s northwestern frontier, the Pakistani military’s media wing said.

It said the attempted infiltrations cast doubt on the intentions of the government in Afghanistan in “regards to addressing the issue of terrorism emanating from its soil”.

In Afghanistan, the Taliban government’s chief spokesman and the defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the reported attacks.

The Taliban denies accusations of sheltering militants and says Pakistan’s military operations violate Afghan sovereignty.

Officials from both countries are meeting in Istanbul to prevent a relapse into conflict after clashes between their armies earlier this month – the worst border fighting since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover of Kabul.

That fighting erupted after Pakistan demanded the Taliban rein in militants it says operate from Afghan sanctuaries, prompting heavy exchanges of fire and Pakistani airstrikes. Both sides reached a truce in Doha last Sunday.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, said on Saturday the truce was holding and he believed Afghanistan wanted peace. But he warned that failure to reach an agreement in Istanbul would mean “open war”.

Pakistan’s military described the attackers on Friday and Saturday as members of “Fitna al Khwarij” a term it uses for groups it says are inspired by militant ideology and backed by “foreign sponsors”.

(Reporting by Ariba Shahid in Karachi; Editing by Andrew Heavens)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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October 26, 2025
Turkish Court Expected to Rule on Case That Could Oust Opposition Leader

ANKARA (Reuters) -A Turkish court is expected to announce a verdict on Friday that could lead to the removal of the main opposition party leader Ozgur Ozel, in a case seen as a test of the country’s shaky balance between democracy and autocracy.

If the court annuls the outcome of proceedings in a 2023 annual congress of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), that would mean the ouster of Ozel, 51, its combative leader.

Ozel has risen to prominence since the March detention of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, his party’s presidential candidate and the main political rival of President Tayyip Erdogan.

The centrist CHP, which denies the charges against it, is level with Erdogan’s Islamic-rooted, conservative AK party (AKP) in most polls.

If the court cancels the congress and ousts Ozel, it could name a trustee to run the party or reinstate former chairman Kemal Kilicdaroglu, whom Erdogan defeated in 2023 elections but has since lost much trust within the CHP.

It could also reject the case, brought by a CHP member, or delay a ruling again.

The CHP sought to shield Ozel from any court ruling last month when it re-elected him leader in an extraordinary party congress.

Hundreds of CHP members have also been jailed pending trial in a separate year-long crackdown that government critics call politicised and anti-democratic. The government rejects this, saying the judiciary is independent.

(Reporting by Ece Toksabay; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)

Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

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October 23, 2025
Retail Investors Lead Israel’s Crypto Boom During Periods of National Uncertainty

MENA crypto markets show diverse adoption narratives – retail-driven in Israel, institutional-led in Turkey and UAE, and resilient yet isolated in Iran.

Israel’s cryptocurrency economy has experienced significant growth, particularly following the national crisis triggered by the October 7, 2023, attacks, according to a recent Chainalysis report.

From 2024 to 2025, the country saw crypto inflows surpassing $713 billion in a steady expansion in line with prior trends. Before the attacks, transaction volumes in Israel closely matched expected activity, with deviations averaging just -0.3%. Following the attacks, however, volumes consistently exceeded forecasts and averaged $0.66 billion more per month than predicted.

Israel’s Retail Crypto Activity Explodes

Overall, actual activity surpassed anticipated levels by 60.4% on average, demonstrating a constant increase rather than a temporary surge in response to crisis conditions. This pattern has continued through 2024 and into 2025, in what Chainalysis has deemed to be a lasting behavioral shift among Israeli crypto users and positioning digital assets as a financial refuge during periods of national uncertainty.

The blockchain data platform noted that similar trends have been observed in other countries facing crises, such as Ukraine and Iran, where crypto adoption spiked in response to geopolitical disruptions.

Analysis by transfer size indicates that this growth is largely retail-driven. Small transfers of under $1,000 and mid-range transfers between $1,000 and $10,000 show the most significant spikes. Small retail transfers reached nearly six times their January 2022 baseline in early 2025, while mid-range retail activity grew roughly four to five times over the same period.

Institutional and professional transaction segments also increased, but at a comparatively restrained rate. The retail-led nature of this growth is similar to patterns seen in other regions affected by conflict or economic stress, as individual citizens turned to cryptocurrencies as alternative financial tools.

You may also like:

Zooming Out: MENA Region

Besides Israel, the MENA region’s major crypto markets present three distinct narratives of adoption. Turkey, for one, has seen crypto inflows soar to roughly $878 billion by mid-2025, as it outpaced all regional markets despite ongoing currency devaluation and inflation. While institutional adoption has remained strong, retail participation has contracted sharply as small and large retail transactions declined by 2.3% and 1.6%, respectively, and professional trader growth dropped nearly 90%.

This divergence reflects affordability challenges, tighter regulations from 2024, and evolving market behavior. Simultaneously, speculative altcoin trading surged from $50 million to over $240 million by mid-2025, which could mean that remaining participants are seeking higher yields amid economic pressures.

Meanwhile, the UAE’s crypto economy expanded by 33% between 2024 and 2025 as it received over $56 billion in inflows. Growth is primarily driven by large institutional transactions, which increased 54.7%, and institutional transfers, up 37.2%. Merchant services, however, saw substantial retail adoption, as seen with small retail transfers (<$1,000), which grew 88.1%, large retail transfers 83.6%, and professional transfers 79.5%.

This indicates a divergence between general crypto usage and commercial applications, as the UAE appears to be quietly emerging as a regulated crypto hub where institutional adoption coexists with expanding everyday transactional use.

Iran’s crypto ecosystem also continued expanding, despite sanctions, economic pressures, and growing isolation from global exchanges, with mid-2025 volumes up 11.8% from 2024. Local exchanges dominate the market: Nobitex.ir accounts for 54.2% of inflows. The sector endured challenges, including a $90 million Nobitex hack in early 2025, but overall growth remained stable.

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October 23, 2025
Wholesale turkey prices soar ahead of Thanksgiving. Here’s what’s behind the surge.

Turkeys aren’t known for flying but their prices are soaring ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

A September outlook report from the United States Agriculture Department estimates that wholesale prices for frozen turkeys will be $1.32 per pound this year, a 40% increase from 2024’s average of $0.94 per pound.

The wholesale price is what retailers pay to buy items in bulk. Retailers then decide how much they want to charge consumers.

The reason the birds — traditionally the centerpiece at the Thanksgiving table — are getting more expensive comes down to supply. The number of available turkeys has shrunk in recent years amid slightly weakened demand and avian flu outbreaks, according to USDA data.

More than 3 million turkeys have been impacted by bird flu outbreaks this year, including over half a million this month alone, USDA data shows.

That translates to less turkeys: USDA forecasts that farmers raised around 195 million turkeys in 2025 compared with 200 million in 2024, a 3% decrease. To be sure, the number of turkeys in supply has been sliding over the last decade. In 2016, farmers raised around 245 million turkeys, roughly 50 million more than today’s supply.

Deals abound

Amid the rise in wholesale turkey prices, several companies are floating deals in an attempt to win over budget-conscious customers.

Walmart announced Tuesday that it is offering Butterball turkeys for $0.97 per pound this year. The retailer also said its 10-person meal deal will cost under $4 per person. Grocery chain Aldi has offered a similar deal, at $40 for 10 people.

Retailers typically use turkeys as a loss leader,” David Ortega, a professor and food economist at Michigan State University, told CBS News. “That is they price them very competitively, sometimes even below cost, to draw shoppers into stores ahead of Thanksgiving.”

Both deals represent a decrease in the average cost for a Thanksgiving meal from 2024, which was $58 for 10 people, according to a report from the American Farm Bureau Federation. Frozen turkeys that year accounted for a large share of Americans’ holiday grocery bill, at an average retail cost of $25 for a 16-pound bird.

Despite the surge in wholesale turkey prices in 2025, Bernt Nelson, an economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation doesn’t expect consumer prices to increase much.

“We see that uptick right now in the wholesale price by about 40%, so we’ll definitely see some price increases there, but I don’t think they’re going to go a whole lot higher above where they are at,” he said on a Farm Bureau podcast.

“Higher wholesale prices for turkeys are likely to translate into somewhat higher prices at the grocery store, but the increase consumers see will probably be smaller than what’s happening upstream,” Ortega explained.

In other welcome news for shoppers, CBS News’ price tracker shows that prices for Thanksgiving dinner ingredients like butter, milk and potatoes haven’t budged much compared with prices the same time last year.

Edited by

Anne Marie D. Lee

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October 22, 2025