A suspect detained by Turkish authorities claimed responsibility for the incident, stating his actions were a protest against the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Reports from Turkish media indicate a lone gunman fired shots near Istanbul’s Israeli consulate-general on Thursday, prompting a swift response from Turkish police.
News outlets reported the suspect discharged a pump-action shotgun into the air five or six times. Video footage shows police utilizing an armored vehicle for protection during the confrontation.
Following several warning shots fired by officers, the gunman surrendered. Identified as 33-year-old A.S., he was found to be in possession of a machete, multiple firearm magazines with varying capacities, and four remaining rounds of ammunition, police confirmed.
The suspect avowed his actions were a protest against Israel’s military operation in Gaza, a highly sensitive issue in Turkey. A.S. has a criminal history including seven prior convictions, encompassing offenses such as weapons violations and assault, officials stated.
İstanbul Beşiktaş’taki İsrail Konsolosluğu önünde, Gazze saldırılarını protesto etmek için havaya pompalı tüfekle ateş açan şahıs, özel harekat polislerinin uyarı ateşi sonrası teslim oldu.
— Türkiye Gazetesi (@turkiyegazetesi)
Israel initiated military action in Gaza in October following a Hamas incursion that resulted in substantial loss of life and hostage-taking.
Palestinian officials report at least 43,000 deaths in Gaza due to the Israeli military operation. A recent UN report indicated that approximately 70% of verified casualties were women and children.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has strongly condemned Israel’s actions, accusing the country of perpetrating a genocide against Palestinians.