Turkish Police Detain Nine After Attack Near Israeli Consulate in Istanbul

Turkish authorities have detained nine individuals as part of an ongoing investigation into a violent attack on police officers near the building housing the Israeli consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday. The incident, which took place in the city's financial and business district, resulted in the death of one assailant, while two others were wounded and apprehended at the scene, officials said.

According to the state news agency, the detained suspects were picked up in coordinated security operations across Istanbul, Konya, and Kocaeli provinces. The two injured assailants, identified by officials as brothers Onur C and Enes C, are among those being questioned by authorities. One of the brothers reportedly has a prior criminal record related to drug offenses.

Interior Minister Mustafa Ciftci confirmed that the group of assailants had traveled from the city of Izmit in Kocaeli province in a rented vehicle. Ciftci also stated that at least one of the attackers was linked to what he described as a group “that exploits religion,” though he did not provide a specific name. The Islamic State group has previously carried out deadly attacks in Turkey, adding to concerns over extremism in the region.

The Israeli consulate was closed at the time of the attack, as Israel had withdrawn its diplomats from Turkey amid security tensions and strained diplomatic relations following the onset of conflict in the Gaza Strip. Two police officers sustained minor injuries during the shootout.

Israel's foreign ministry publicly condemned the attack and expressed gratitude to Turkish authorities for their swift response, noting that further violence was prevented.

Authorities in Turkey continue to question the detained suspects as the investigation into the motives and organizational links behind the assault remains active.