Turkey: Israeli government warns of terror attacks planned against Israeli citizens in Istanbul as of June 13

Event

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement, June 13, urging Israeli citizens in Istanbul to leave the city as soon as possible due to the potential for terrorist attacks. At the same, Israel has raised its threat level for Istanbul to Tier 4, which is the highest on its four-tier scale; other parts of Turkey remain at the Tier 3 threat level. Israeli officials have stated that the warning comes after Turkish and Israeli security services foiled an attempted attack on Israelis in the city by an Iranian network operating in Turkey. Turkish officials have indicated, however, that there is no increased threat for Israeli citizens transiting through Istanbul Airport as long as they remain in the airport.

Turkish authorities could react by bolstering security near sensitive locations in major cities. Localized transport disruptions could occur in areas with a heavy security presence.

Context

The June 13 statement is the most recent warning that Tel Aviv has issued concerning an increased potential for Israeli nationals traveling in Turkey to be targeted for attack by Iranian operatives. On May 30, the Israeli Embassy in Ankara updated its standing travel advisory for Turkey, to reflect the elevated risk posed to its nationals in view of accusations levied against Israel by Iran following the recent deaths of several members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Advice

Exercise increased caution if operating in Turkey, especially in Istanbul. Maintain heightened situational awareness near locations that could potentially become targets, including houses of worship, tourist attractions, hotels frequented by foreigners, and public transport hubs. Heed the instructions of local security personnel and maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.