Politics More suspected IS members arrested in Turkey
Turkish security forces have once again carried out raids against suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist militia ahead of New Year's Eve. During operations in 25 provinces, 125 suspected IS members were arrested, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on X. According to the Istanbul Public Prosecutor's Office, 29 suspects were taken into custody in Istanbul alone. Digital material and documents were also confiscated.
31.12.2025, 10:48
SDA
The suspects in Istanbul are accused, among other things, of spreading propaganda in connection with the operation against IS in Yalova in western Turkey. On Monday night, three police officers were killed and nine other security forces were injured during the operation against suspected IS members. Security forces had already carried out nationwide raids on Tuesday and arrested hundreds of suspected IS members.
New Year's Eve a symbolic date
IS maintains networks and logistical structures in Turkey. The Federal Foreign Office is currently urging particular caution. The time before New Year's Eve is a "particularly symbolic date" for terrorist attacks. The local authorities have imposed strict security measures, particularly in the capital Ankara and the metropolis of Istanbul.
IS has repeatedly claimed responsibility for attacks in Turkey, including the attack on Istanbul's Reina club on New Year's Eve 2016/2017, when 39 people were shot dead.
