Gunfire broke out near the Israeli consulate building in Istanbul’s Besiktas district on Tuesday, prompting a swift response from Turkish security forces. Authorities confirmed that the incident occurred outside the consulate premises, although it remains unclear whether the diplomatic site was the intended target.
According to officials, the consulate has been closed for at least two years and is currently unstaffed. A spokesperson for Israel’s Foreign Ministry said the matter is under investigation, while confirming that no personnel were present at the facility during the incident.
Security forces respond as attackers neutralised
Meanwhile, media reports indicated that three individuals were killed and two police officers were injured during the exchange of gunfire. Turkish outlets, including NTV and CNN Turk, reported that the deceased were the suspected attackers, who were shot by security forces at the scene.
Furthermore, video footage reviewed by Reuters showed a police officer taking cover and drawing a weapon as gunshots rang out. One individual was also seen at the scene, highlighting the intensity of the incident.
Authorities launch investigation amid heightened security
At the same time, Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gurlek announced that three investigators have been assigned to examine the incident. He stated that authorities are conducting a thorough and multifaceted inquiry.
Additionally, the area around the consulate typically maintains a strong armed police presence, which was further reinforced after the shooting. Officials have not yet determined the motive behind the attack or whether it was politically or ideologically driven.
Therefore, investigations continue as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the area.
