Gunfight Breaks Out Near Israeli Consulate in Istanbul: Three Assailants Neutralized
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Key Takeaways
Ankara, April 7 (NationPress) A violent confrontation occurred on Tuesday as police engaged three armed assailants outside the Israeli Consulate located in the Besiktas district of Istanbul, Turkey. Reports confirm that all three attackers were neutralized during the gunfight, which erupted outside the now-defunct consulate building, according to local news sources.
Justice Minister Akin Gurlek announced that an investigation has been initiated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office following reports of gunfire in the area surrounding the consulate. The prominent media outlet Daily Sabah has covered the unfolding situation extensively.
In a statement shared on X, Gurlek indicated, "Following the reports of gunfire near the Israeli Consulate situated in Istanbul's Besiktas district, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office promptly commenced an investigation. A deputy chief public prosecutor and two public prosecutors have been assigned to the case, with our prosecutors arriving at the scene swiftly to begin their inquiries."
He further added, "Our Chief Public Prosecutor's Office is coordinating with relevant law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident, ensuring a comprehensive and meticulous approach to the case."
Istanbul Governor Davut Gul noted that the consulate has not served diplomatic functions for roughly 2.5 years. He also reported that two police officers sustained minor injuries during the exchange of fire.
Interior Minister Mustafa Ciftci later confirmed that the three armed individuals involved in the conflict with police were neutralized. He further disclosed their identities, stating, "Three individuals engaged in a shootout with our police officers in front of the Yapı Kredi Plaza Blocks have been neutralized. In this clash, two of our brave officers incurred minor injuries. The terrorists have been identified, with one linked to a group misusing religion, and it was revealed that one of the two brothers involved has a prior drug-related record," Ciftci posted on X.
Initial evaluations suggest that no diplomatic personnel were present at the scene during the incident, according to Daily Sabah.