US Court Dismisses Long-Running Case Against Turkey’s Halkbank

A US court has approved the dismissal of a long-running criminal case against Turkish state bank Halkbank, effectively ending nine years of legal proceedings. The decision followed a joint request by the US Department of Justice and the bank. Halkbank welcomed the ruling, saying the case was “finally closed” and that it would now focus on its operations and growth while continuing to comply with international banking regulations

A United States court has approved the dismissal of a long-running case against Turkish state-owned lender Halkbank, bringing to an end a legal process that had stretched for about nine years and attracted significant international attention.

The ruling was issued by the US District Court for the Southern District of New York after it granted a joint request submitted by the US Department of Justice’s Southern District office and Halkbank. The request asked the court to formally dismiss the criminal case that had been ongoing against the bank in the United States. With the approval of the court, the proceedings have now been fully terminated.

The case had followed Halkbank for years and had been a subject of diplomatic and financial interest due to its implications for Türkiye–US relations and for international banking compliance standards. The dismissal marks the final legal closure of the matter, ending a prolonged period of uncertainty for the Turkish lender.

Following the court’s decision, Halkbank issued a statement through Türkiye’s Public Disclosure Platform (KAP), confirming that the case had been “definitively and finally closed.” The bank described the outcome as a positive development and expressed hope that it would benefit its operations, shareholders, customers, and employees.

Halkbank reiterated that it would continue its banking activities in full compliance with all applicable national and international regulations. The institution stated that it remains committed to contributing to the growth and stability of Türkiye’s financial sector and broader economy. It also emphasized that maintaining regulatory compliance and strengthening financial integrity would continue to be central to its operations.

The bank’s General Manager, Recep Süleyman Özdil, also commented on the ruling, saying that the conclusion of the case came without any judicial or administrative sanctions imposed on Halkbank. He described the outcome as a significant milestone for the institution, allowing it to move forward with greater certainty and focus on its core banking functions.

Özdil noted that the resolution of the long-standing legal process would enable the bank to operate with improved predictability and stronger institutional motivation. He also highlighted that the decision reinforces Halkbank’s compliance systems, which he said have been developed in line with both domestic and international financial regulations.

He further explained that the bank’s approach is built on transparency, accountability, and trust, which he described as essential principles in modern banking. According to him, the favourable conclusion of the case is expected to strengthen Halkbank’s reputation in global financial markets.

He added that the dismissal could improve the bank’s access to international funding sources and deepen its cooperation with global financial institutions. It may also enhance relationships with correspondent banks, which are critical for facilitating cross-border transactions.

Özdil further stated that increased confidence from international partners would help Halkbank diversify its funding base and support its long-term growth strategy. He expressed optimism that the bank’s strengthened position would contribute positively to both its future performance and its role in Türkiye’s financial system.