Riot police fired tear gas, water cannon and rubber bullets in day-long clashes in Istanbul that lasted into the early hours today.

In Turkey, violence is flaring again in Istanbul with reports that thousands of protesters are gathering in Taksim Square, which is lined with police.

Hundreds of riot police have stormed improvised barricades at Istanbul’s Taksim Square, firing tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon in running battles with protesters who have been occupying the area for more than a week.

Turkey’s Prime Minister took a combative stance on his return to the country, telling supporters that the nationwide protests must come to an end.

Turkey's Prime Minister says he will go ahead with redevelopment plans that have sparked nationwide protests.