Turkish Singer Işın Karaca denied entry to Athens, claims “hostile treatment” at airport

Turkish singer Işın Karaca says she was denied entry into Greece and deported from Athens International Airport, alleging she was treated “like an enemy rather than a tourist.”

Denied Entry at Airport
According to the artist, the incident occurred on the evening of April 10 while she was traveling to Athens for a family visit. Karaca stated that she was stopped during passport control and refused entry, while her husband and daughter were allowed to enter the country.

She was reportedly held at the airport for several hours before being placed on a return flight to Türkiye.

Alleged Reason: 2024 Concert Controversy
Karaca claims the decision is linked to a 2024 concert in Gümülcine, where she performed the patriotic İzmir Marşı and used the phrase “Ne mutlu Türk’üm diyene” (“How happy is the one who says I am a Turk”).

The performance drew criticism at the time from some Greek media outlets and political circles, according to reports.

In a video shared on social media, Karaca displayed what she described as an official document citing the incident as grounds for her denial of entry.

“No Water, Hours of Waiting”
Describing her experience, Karaca said she was kept waiting for hours without basic assistance, adding:

“I was not treated as a tourist, but clearly as an enemy.”
She also criticized what she called a lack of communication and transparency, saying no adequate explanation was provided during the process.

No Official Statement Yet
As of now, Greek authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the incident or the alleged grounds for the entry ban.

Diplomatic and Cultural Sensitivities
The case highlights ongoing sensitivities surrounding national identity, cultural expression, and Greek-Turkish relations, particularly in regions like Western Thrace, where minority issues and symbolism can become politically charged.