Turkish security forces have apprehended 32 individuals suspected of having connections to the extremist group Islamic State, the country's state-run news agency reported.
These suspects were allegedly planning to carry out attacks on synagogues, churches, and the Iraqi Embassy in Turkey.
Islamic State Operatives Arrested in Turkey
In a recent development reported by the Anadolu Agency, a series of arrests were carried out in nine provinces during early morning raids on Friday. Arrangement between the nation's intelligence agency and the police, a successful operation has led to the apprehension of three individuals believed to be high-ranking militants associated with the Islamic State.
The recent arrests follow a larger operation carried out a week ago, during which 304 suspected Islamic State militants were apprehended in simultaneous raids across Turkey. This security sweep was believed to be aimed at ensuring safety during the New Year festivities.
The Islamic State has been responsible for numerous deadly attacks within Turkey, including the shooting at an Istanbul nightclub on January 1, 2017, which claimed the lives of 39 people during New Year celebrations. In addition, a suicide bombing in Istanbul in March 2016 resulted in the deaths of three Israelis and injuries to 11 others.
Turkish Jewish institutions have once again fallen victim to acts of terrorism, marking a recurring pattern in response to geopolitical matters. In 2003, a string of bombings took place in Istanbul, orchestrated by Al-Qaeda.
The targets of these attacks included symbolic Western landmarks, such as the British consulate and local offices of the British HSBC bank, as well as two Turkish synagogues. In a tragic turn of incidents, a number of attacks have claimed the lives of 28 individuals and left hundreds injured, according to ABC News.
ISIS Suspects Arrested Amid US State Department
Earlier this year, 15 suspects linked to the Islamic State were arrested by Istanbul police, allegedly planning to attack synagogues and churches in Turkey. As a result, the US State Department issued a warning to American citizens residing in Turkey of potential imminent terrorist attacks targeting diplomatic institutions and places where Westerners typically gather, specifically mentioning churches and synagogues.
In a span of two years, the Israeli spy agency, Mossad, has allegedly emerged as a key player in thwarting multiple terrorist attacks targeting Israelis in Turkey. The success has been credited to the strong relationship between Mossad and Turkey's National Intelligence Organization (MIT).
Most of the foiled plots have been associated with the Islamic State and targeted Israeli businesspeople and other individuals within Turkey. Given the rising levels of antisemitism worldwide, particularly as Israel combats the Hamas terror group in Gaza, the National Security Council recently restated its recommendation for Israelis to reconsider traveling abroad. For those who must travel, the council advised avoiding outward displays of Jewish or Israeli identity.
The Turkish government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens and visitors is evident in their actions to apprehend suspected Islamic State militants. Specifically, they have focused on individuals planning attacks on religious institutions and diplomatic entities, Times of Israel reported.
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