Greek Council Approves Extradition of Erdogan Ally Facing Grave Charges

Greece's Council of State ruled in favor of extraditing Turkish businessman Ali Yesildag, who is wanted by Turkey for crimes such as manslaughter and attempted robbery. Yesildag, a former ally of President Erdogan, awaits a final decision on his asylum request in Greece, citing threats to his life.

Greece's Council of State has approved the extradition of Ali Yesildag, a Turkish businessman wanted by Ankara for crimes including manslaughter and attempted robbery, legal sources informed Reuters on Wednesday. Yesildag's extradition is pending his asylum request in Greece, citing threats to his life due to conflicts with President Erdogan.

The 54-year-old, previously allied with President Tayyip Erdogan, was arrested last year near the Greek-Turkish border. Turkish authorities have sought his extradition based on an Interpol notice for crimes he was convicted of in 1986. Yesildag recently accused Erdogan's family of corruption, adding to his legal woes.

Despite serving part of his prison sentences and receiving amnesty for the rest, Yesildag continues to face extradition challenges. Greece's supreme court and justice minister upheld the extradition earlier this year, but Yesildag appealed, leading to the Council of State's recent ruling. The European Court of Human Rights has paused his extradition until Aug. 23 for reexamination.

(With inputs from agencies.)