Diary

ISTANBUL (AA) - Here are the main topics Anadolu's English Desk plans to cover on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025 (coverage may change depending on developing/breaking stories):

Implementation of Gaza ceasefire deal amid Israel’s continued closure of Rafah crossing

Developments in implementing the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire, including mediator efforts on prisoner repatriation and humanitarian aid, while Netanyahu said the Rafah crossing will remain closed “until further notice,” violating the agreement.

Trump's special envoy to visit Middle East for ceasefire implementation follow-up

US President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to visit Egypt, Israel, and possibly the Gaza Strip on Sunday to follow up on the implementation of the ceasefire agreement in the Palestinian enclave.

European reactions to Trump-Zelenskyy talks

Statements from European countries about Friday’s talk between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy which marks his third visit to the White House since Trump took office in January. During the meeting, the Ukrainian president said he believed that Trump could help bring the war with Russia to an end while he reiterates demand that Kyiv’s need for advanced US weaponry, including Tomahawk cruise missiles. It comes after Trump announced he will meet Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Hungary for Ukraine talk.

Polling begins in TRNC presidential elections

Polling begins in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) for 1st round of presidential elections. Seven candidates, including incumbent President Ersin Tatar, are contesting.

A candidate will be elected president in the first round if they receive more than 50% of the vote (an absolute majority). If no candidate achieves an absolute majority, the top two candidates receiving the most votes in the first round will advance to the second round, to be held within seven days.

Tropical storm Fengshen expected to hit Philippines

Tropical storm Fengshen expected to make a second landfall in the Philippines’ main island Luzon. Floods and landslides are likely to occur.