Turkey Foils Christmas, New Year Terror Plot, Detains 115 IS Suspects
Turkish officials issued warrants for 137 suspects, of whom 115 were detained. Officers also seized many firearms, cartridges and documents during the raids. | World News
Turkish authorities have thwarted a potential terror threat ahead of the holiday season, arresting 115 suspected Islamic State (IS) members in a coordinated raid. The suspects were allegedly planning attacks on Christmas and New Year's celebrations, particularly targeting non-Muslims. Istanbul police, acting on a tip, launched simultaneous operations and seized a significant amount of firearms, ammunition, and documents.
The operation comes on the heels of US-led airstrikes in neighboring Syria, aimed at eliminating IS fighters and infrastructure. Syrian security forces have also been ramping up their efforts against the group, capturing a top leader and killing a senior commander in recent days.
The international community has been working together to combat IS, with top Turkish officials visiting Syria to discuss counterterrorism efforts. Despite losing its territory, IS continues to pose a threat, with cells in multiple countries carrying out periodic attacks. The group's brutal tactics against religious minorities and those who do not adhere to its extreme ideology have been well-documented since its peak in 2015.
