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In a decisive operation aimed at safeguarding the upcoming festive season, Turkiye’s law enforcement agencies have arrested more than 100 individuals suspected of affiliations with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). Reports indicate that these suspects were allegedly plotting attacks targeting non-Muslim communities during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The raids took place across 124 locations in Istanbul, where authorities apprehended 115 potential threats, according to the Istanbul chief prosecutor’s office. This extensive operation was conducted following credible intelligence suggesting that ISIL members were planning imminent attacks.
Details of the operation
During the raids, officers seized a variety of materials, including firearms, ammunition, and documents believed to be linked to the group’s organizational activities. Law enforcement officials are actively pursuing an additional 22 suspects who remain at large, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the threat.
Collaboration among forces
This operation was a coordinated effort involving various branches of the Turkish security apparatus, including intelligence services, police, and military units. The arrested individuals are suspected of facilitating funding for ISIL’s operations and disseminating its propaganda.
The Istanbul prosecutor’s office noted that many of those detained were in communication with ISIL members located outside of Turkiye, highlighting the organization’s transnational character. These arrests represent a continuation of Turkiye’s aggressive stance against ISIL, which is regarded as a significant terrorism threat within the nation.
Is Turkiye a target for ISIL?
Due to its geographical positioning and diverse demographics, Turkiye has become a prime target for ISIL activity. The nation shares a lengthy border with Syria, where ISIL continues to maintain a presence despite losing significant territory in 2019.
Since the declaration of ISIL as a terrorist organization in 2013, Turkish authorities have made substantial efforts to combat its influence. Over the past decade, more than 19,000 individuals have been detained for alleged ties to the group. Additionally, over 7,600 foreign nationals suspected of engaging in armed activities linked to ISIL have been deported during this period.
Recent developments and international context
This operation follows a series of arrests in March, when Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the detention of 298 suspected ISIL members across 47 provinces within a span of two weeks. The timing of the current arrests is notable, occurring just days after the United States conducted airstrikes against ISIL positions in Syria, targeting over 70 locations. These strikes were a response to a deadly ambush that resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and an interpreter.
In response to the ongoing ISIL threat, Syria’s new government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, has expressed its commitment to collaborate with the US and European partners to eliminate remaining ISIL elements. Recent reports indicate that the Syrian authorities have also detained a significant figure within ISIL.
The latest arrests conducted by Turkish authorities underscore the seriousness with which they approach the threat posed by ISIL. As the holiday celebrations approach, Turkiye remains vigilant in its efforts to ensure the safety of all its citizens, particularly those from vulnerable communities.