EU chief mourns deadly steel plant blast in Türkiye
10:11, 10/11/2026, TuesdayU: Update: 10:49, 10/11/2026, Tuesday
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed condolences on Monday over a deadly explosion at a steel plant in western Türkiye, as authorities confirmed that at least 16 workers were killed and 13 others injured in the industrial accident near Izmir.
EU condolences
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday expressed condolences over a fatal explosion at a steel facility in western Türkiye that claimed at least 16 lives. In a post on X, she stated: "I am deeply saddened by the news of an explosion at the Aliağa iron and steel plant. My sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims," she said.
Industrial accident
The blast occurred at the Aliağa plant in Izmir province during furnace replacement work, according to local officials. At least 16 people were killed and 13 injured, including two seriously, as authorities launched an investigation.
Message to Erdogan
Von der Leyen also addressed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan directly, writing: "Dear @RTErdogan (Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan), my thoughts are with Türkiye at this difficult moment," she added.
