Two people have died in ongoing wildfires that have ravaged several regions of Turkey for seven consecutive days. A relatively unknown group calling itself “Children of Fire” has claimed responsibility for dozens of fires across six cities, raising new concerns about arson-related threats.
Fatalities and Widespread Damage
The first victim was an 81-year-old bedridden man who perished alone in his home as flames engulfed the property. The second fatality occurred in Edremit, where excavator operator İbrahim Demir lost his life while assisting in firefighting efforts, according to reports from Anadolu Agency.
A wildfire burns near Alacati in Izmir province, Turkey, July 3, 2025. REUTERS/Murat Kocabas
Turkish authorities have confirmed that the fires have destroyed approximately 200 homes. The government is providing alternative housing for affected residents, according to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.
A person responds to a wildfire near Alacati in Izmir province, Turkey, July 3, 2025. REUTERS/Murat Kocabas
Arson Claims Linked to Kurdish Group
Responsibility for the fires has been claimed by a group called “Children of Fire,” through an online statement citing the organization’s involvement in arson attacks across six Turkish cities. The group alleges ties to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which is designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union.
The PKK, which announced its dissolution in May following a 40-year insurgency, has not commented on the group’s claims or the recent fires.
Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
Firefighters, supported by helicopters and airplanes, continue to battle flames in mountainous regions surrounding the city of Izmir. Authorities have closed several roads near the resort town of Çeşme as a precaution.
A satellite image shows smoke rising due to a fire in the Izmir province, Turkey, June 30, 2025. European Union/Copernicus Sentinel-2/Handout via REUTERS THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY. MANDATORY CREDIT. PICTURED TONED AT SOURCE.
Additional wildfires were reported in Antalya and in forested areas near Istanbul. Emergency services were able to bring most of these new fires under control, according to state media.
As Turkey continues to face dangerous wildfire conditions, the situation has taken on an added dimension of political and security complexity with claims of coordinated arson. Authorities remain on high alert as investigations continue.
