Shooting Near Israel Consulate In Istanbul Leaves 3 Dead, 2 Policemen Injured

A gunfight broke out near a building housing the Israeli Consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday, leaving two attackers dead, a third in custody, and one police officer injured, according to the latest reports. The exchange of fire unfolded in the Levent area, where the consulate building is located, prompting a large-scale security response and an official investigation by Turkish authorities.

Attackers Open Fire Near Consulate Building In Levent

The incident began when armed assailants opened fire outside the building housing the Israeli Consulate in Istanbul, triggering a swift response from Turkish police.

According to the Associated Press, the attackers were carrying long-barrelled weapons when they launched the assault near the consulate premises. Police personnel stationed in the area returned fire, leading to a gun battle outside the building.

A Reuters witness also reported hearing gunfire near the building housing the Israeli Consulate, as emergency teams and additional security personnel rushed to the area.

Two Attackers Killed, Third Captured In Exchange Of Fire

During the gunfight, two of the attackers were shot dead by police, while a third suspect was captured alive, according to the latest details. The earlier confusion over the number of casualties appears to have been clarified by the updated reports, which suggest the deceased were among the assailants involved in the attack.

One police officer was injured in the exchange of gunfire, though officials have not yet provided details on the severity of the injuries.

The exact identity of the attackers has not yet been disclosed, and authorities have so far not indicated whether the Israeli diplomatic mission itself was the intended target or whether the attack was aimed at security personnel outside the site.

Area Sealed Off As Heavy Security Response Follows

The area around the consulate building was quickly sealed off after the shooting, with a heavy deployment of police and emergency responders seen near the scene.

Security teams moved in to secure the surroundings in Levent, one of Istanbul's key commercial districts, as investigators began examining how the attack unfolded. The consulate building itself was reported earlier to have been closed for about a year, according to local media.

The gunfight has drawn significant attention due to its proximity to the Israeli diplomatic mission amid ongoing regional tensions.

Turkish Justice Minister Confirms Probe

Turkey's Justice Minister Akin Gurlek confirmed that an investigation has been launched into the shooting and the subsequent police response.

There was no immediate information on the identity of the attackers or their motive, officials said, leaving several questions unanswered as authorities continue to gather evidence and review the events that led to the gunfight.