Two Gunmen Killed in Attack on Israeli Consulate in Istanbul
At least two gunmen were shot dead and one severely wounded after they opened fire outside the building housing the Israeli consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday afternoon, according to Turkish media reports and video footage from Reuters. The violent confrontation, which lasted several minutes, erupted in the city's bustling financial district, prompting a massive police response and a temporary lockdown of the surrounding area.
Intense Gun Battle and Police Response
Footage circulating online showed police officers taking cover behind vehicles and engaging in a fierce exchange of fire for nearly ten minutes as gunshots echoed through the streets. Two individuals could be seen lying on the ground during the chaos. According to a Reuters report, the bodies of two assailants were later discovered near grassy areas close to the consulate building.
The incident occurred around 12:15 PM local time, as reported by AFP citing local media sources. NTV broadcast images depicting a heavy police deployment surrounding the consulate premises, located in Istanbul's major business hub. Turkish outlets described the three attackers as armed with rifles, dressed in camouflage gear, and carrying backpacks.
Casualties and Official Statements
Turkish state broadcaster TRT confirmed that two police officers were injured in the confrontation. The Istanbul governor's office issued a statement, saying, "Police are working to identify the attackers near the Israeli consulate in Istanbul." They confirmed that the assailants had used automatic rifles and handguns in the assault. Notably, the governor also mentioned that no diplomatic personnel had been present at the consulate for the past 2.5 years.
The exact motive behind the attack remains unclear as authorities continue to investigate the incident. Local news outlets described the area around the consulate—situated inside a tower complex—as a significant business hub, where multiple police and security vehicles were stationed following the shooting. Safety cordons have since been established as forensic teams examine the scene thoroughly.
This attack highlights ongoing security challenges in the region, with authorities working to piece together the events and ensure public safety in the aftermath.
