Iraqi Consulate in Istanbul Targeted in Shooting Amid Rising Tensions

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The Iraqi Consulate in Istanbul came under gunfire on Friday evening, as unidentified assailants opened fire on the diplomatic mission before fleeing the scene.

According to a statement from the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, two gunmen on a motorcycle fired eight rounds from a Kalashnikov rifle at the building’s facade. Turkish security forces promptly sealed off the surrounding streets and launched an investigation, collecting evidence from the site.

The ministry emphasized the necessity of ensuring diplomatic protection under international conventions and called for increased security measures for Iraqi diplomatic missions in Türkiye.

Heightened Tensions in Türkiye

The attack on the consulate comes amid escalating unrest across Türkiye following the controversial arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu. Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets, defying a four-day ban on public gatherings declared by Turkish authorities.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the arrest of 53 individuals and reported injuries to 16 police officers during the demonstrations, which erupted in major cities, including Ankara, Izmir, and Istanbul. The protests were met with a heavy security presence as the government intensified its crackdown.

Political Fallout and Opposition Defiance

Imamoglu, a leading opposition figure and prominent rival of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was detained on corruption charges and alleged ties to a terrorist organization. His arrest has triggered widespread condemnation from European officials and opposition leaders, who accused the government of weaponizing the judiciary for political gain.

Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel denounced the arrest, urging citizens to continue their protests. "Erdogan fears the streets more than anything else," Özel said, addressing supporters outside Istanbul's municipal headquarters. "We will not retreat as long as our elected mayor is behind bars."

Diplomatic Security Under Scrutiny

While Turkish authorities have yet to confirm any direct connection between the attack on the Iraqi consulate and the ongoing unrest, concerns over diplomatic security have surged. Türkiye is facing pressure to ensure the safety of foreign missions operating within its borders.

The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated the importance of protecting diplomatic premises and personnel, emphasizing the role of Turkish authorities in maintaining security. Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.