ISTANBUL, Turkey — A violent confrontation erupted outside the Israeli Consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday when three armed individuals launched an assault on police officers, resulting in one gunman’s death and the capture of two wounded suspects, according to Turkish authorities.
Istanbul Governor Davut Gul reported to the media that two law enforcement officers received minor injuries during the exchange of gunfire. The attackers were armed with long-barrel firearms during the incident.
Turkey’s Interior Minister Mustafa Cifti revealed on X that the perpetrators had driven approximately 60 miles from Izmit to Istanbul in a rental vehicle. According to Cifti, one of the suspects had connections to an organization that “exploits religion,” though he did not specify which group. Turkey has previously experienced fatal attacks carried out by the Islamic State organization.
The Interior Ministry identified the two captured brothers as Onur C. and Enes C., with the former having a prior criminal history involving narcotics. Both suspects are currently undergoing questioning.
Footage captured during the assault revealed one gunman wielding what looked like an assault weapon while wearing a brown backpack, taking cover behind a bus during the firefight with officers. The video shows a police officer being struck and falling before rolling to safety behind a tree.
Ministry officials confirmed that one officer sustained a leg wound while another was injured in the ear during the confrontation.
The consulate operates within a high-rise structure located in Levent, a major commercial area of the city. Authorities noted that no Israeli diplomatic personnel are currently stationed at Israeli facilities throughout Turkey, as Israel removed its diplomats due to safety concerns and worsening diplomatic ties during the Gaza conflict.
Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gurlek announced that three prosecutors, including a deputy chief prosecutor, have been appointed to oversee the investigation.
Law enforcement cordoned off the building and closed multiple streets while forensic specialists in protective gear searched the scene for evidence.
U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack criticized the attack and commended Turkish officials for “their swift and decisive response.” He stated on X: “Attacks on diplomatic missions are attacks on the international order — and an assault on the principles that bind nations together.”
Israel’s Foreign Ministry similarly condemned the incident and praised Turkish security personnel for their “swift action in thwarting this attack.”
