Update: Military Coup in Turkey
According to our partners at UHC Global, the Istanbul Ataturk Airport has reopened although flights continue to be delayed and cancelled. Flights are also still not going in and out of the U.S. UHC Global has initiated evacuation benefits for ISEP students who are in Turkey and who remain covered by ISEP insurance. UHC Global is assisting with flight itinerary changes and transportation to the airport to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of our students.
The U.S. Department of State continues to advise the following:
- Use extreme caution when leaving their homes or hotels; • Remain in their homes
- Be aware of local events
- Follow local authority instructions
- Monitor local media for further developments
- Take the appropriate steps to bolster your personal security.
July 16, 2016 - Update: Military Coup in Turkey
U.S. Embassy Ankara informs U.S. citizens that the situation in Turkey remains fluid. As the situation in Turkey stabilizes, U.S. Embassy Ankara strongly encourages U.S. citizens to use extreme caution in leaving your residence or hotel to conduct essential errands or business. Due to the potential for rallies and the possibility of clashes, the U.S. Embassy advises you to conduct such activities during daylight hours.
July 15, 2016 - Update: Military Coup in Turkey
U.S. Embassy Ankara informs U.S. citizens that there are reports of shots fired and explosions in Ankara. Both bridges in Istanbul, the Bosphorous and Fatih Sultan Mehmet, are now closed. Martial law and a curfew have been imposed in Turkey. All flights at Ataturk Istanbul Airport have been suspended, and other airports throughout Turkey are closed.
We urge U.S. citizens to contact family and friends to let them know you are safe. We have seen reports that social media may be blocked, but you can contact friends and family by email, telephone or SMS. We encourage U.S. citizens to shelter in place and not go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulates at this time. Monitor local press for updates, avoid areas of conflict, and exercise caution if you are in the vicinity of any military or security forces. U.S. citizens are urged to:
- Remain in their homes
- Be aware of local events
- Follow local authority instructions
- Monitor local media for further developments
- Take the appropriate steps to bolster your personal security.
In this context, U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance in public and residential areas and tourist destinations. Expect further disruptions in commercial and public transportation, and check with your transportation provider (e.g., airline, train operator, etc.). U.S. citizens are encouraged to monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
July 15, 2016 - Military Coup in Turkey
On July 15, 2016 media outlets are reporting an attempted military coup in Turkey. The U.S. Embassy urges all Americans in Turkey to be cautious. We are currently checking in with all students with programs currently running in Europe to ensure that we do not have students traveling in Turkey.
Please respond immediately to ISEP in one of the following ways:
- Reply to your ISEP email using the word “safe”
- Check-in on Facebook by posting on our closed page “safe”
If you are not able to reply to the email or check in on Facebook please use one of these other means:
- Ask a friend to do so for you
- Call or text your host ISEP Coordinator directly
- Call or text your home ISEP Coordinator directly
- Text your name and “Safe” through WhatsApp or directly to 703-969-0069
Once you have confirmed your safety and whereabouts, we will notify your host and home ISEP Coordinators. Your home ISEP Coordinator will then notify your emergency contact.
We strongly recommend that you notify your parents and loved ones regarding your whereabouts and safety, to prevent additional worry.
For additional emergency resources, we urge you to:
- Review our ISEP Health and Safety Policy.
- Follow any instructions given by your host institution, embassy, local law enforcement and media.
- Speak with your ISEP Program Officer if you do not feel safe and let us know your situation.
- Contact UHC Global, our global emergency partners, for help. You can connect with them directly at this number o Toll-free in the USA: +(1) 800-527-0218 o Overseas call collect: +(1) 410-453-6330
We will continue to monitor this situation and will provide more information as it is made available.