The protesters had been given permission to march through the square, which is on their normal rally route, but they were forced to disperse when government officials closed off the area at the last minute.

Sources claim the activists were told they could not gather there during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, but officials at the Istanbul Governor's office insist they were not asked for permission to use Taksim Square, and the security forces acted proportionally.

Gay icon and rights advocate Gaga took to her Twitter account on Sunday (28Jun15) and urged the Turkish authorities to "celebrate both Ramadan and Pride in PEACE", and later added, "Istanbul? Who are these 'leaders'! Stop attacking innocent happy people who are celebrating this is madness! This is inhumane!

"Governor! Set an example for people to celebrate both Ramadan and Pride in PEACE, instead of dividing with violence!"

The Poker Face hitmaker also posted a photo of the activists peacefully marching through the streets before trouble started.