One Dead, Two Injured in Shooting Outside Israeli Consulate in Istanbul

A prolonged armed confrontation near the Israeli consulate building in Istanbul claimed lives, as authorities link attackers to a group exploiting religion, confirming no diplomatic staff were present at the consulate.

The incident unfolded around 12:15 on April 7 in Levent, Istanbul’s financial district, where three armed individuals opened fire near the Yapı Kredi Plaza complex housing the Israeli consulate. Gunfire lasted at least 10 minutes, according to Reuters witnesses.

Police units stationed at a permanent checkpoint returned fire immediately. One attacker was killed, while two others were captured wounded. Two police officers sustained minor injuries and were hospitalized, with no life-threatening conditions reported.

Interior Minister Mustafa Ciftci said the suspects were “neutralized,” adding that one had links to “an organisation that exploits religion” and that two of the attackers were brothers.

Authorities also confirmed the group had traveled from Izmit using a rental vehicle.

Footage reviewed by Reuters showed at least one attacker armed with both an automatic rifle and a handgun, moving between police buses while firing. Two bodies were visible near parking and roadside areas following the exchange.

The engagement took place adjacent to a major motorway and among high-rise office towers, where thousands of workers were on lunch break. The density of the area amplified the operational risk, though no civilian casualties were reported.

Officials confirmed that the Israeli consulate had not been staffed for several months, following the deterioration of Türkiye-Israel relations after the 2023 Gaza war. The Israeli foreign ministry said it was examining the incident and reiterated that no personnel were present.

Security around the site has remained elevated since 2023, when Israeli diplomats left Türkiye amid protests and diplomatic tensions. A permanent armed police presence has since been maintained.

Authorities said they are continuing thier investigation into the affiliation, logistics, and intent of the attackers.