Turkish security forces have successfully dismantled an extensive Islamic State network that was actively planning coordinated attacks during Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. In a sweeping counterterrorism operation across Istanbul, authorities apprehended 115 suspected ISIS operatives while pursuing an additional 22 individuals still at large.
The massive intelligence-driven operation targeted 124 separate locations throughout Turkey’s largest city, resulting in the seizure of significant weapon caches including firearms, ammunition, and critical organizational documents. According to Istanbul’s Chief Prosecutor, the detained suspects maintained active communication channels with ISIS leadership operating outside Turkish borders.
Investigators revealed the terrorist cell specifically planned to target non-Muslim communities and religious gatherings during the holiday period. This security operation represents one of the most comprehensive counterterrorism efforts in recent years against ISIS infrastructure within Turkey.
The crackdown occurs amidst heightened regional tensions following the recent killing of three American personnel—two soldiers and a civilian interpreter—in an ISIS-ambush earlier this month. In response, the United States conducted a series of airstrikes against ISIS positions across Syria last Friday.
Turkey’s geographic position remains particularly vulnerable to terrorist infiltration due to its 900-kilometer (560-mile) border with Syria, where ISIS maintains active cells in certain regions. President Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria, maintaining close ties with the Turkish government, has committed to collaborative efforts with Western nations to eliminate remaining ISIS elements in the region.
Turkish security agencies continue regular operations against suspected ISIS affiliates, reflecting the ongoing threat posed by the organization despite its territorial defeats in previous years.