Deadly shootout near Israeli consulate in Istanbul

Three people ​were killed and two ‌police officers were injured in a gunfire incident ​near the building housing ​the Israeli consulate in ⁠Istanbul on Tuesday, ​Reuters reported citing local media.

Reuters video showed ​a police officer pulling out a gun and taking ​cover as gunshots ​resounded. One person was seen covered ‌in ⁠blood.

A strong armed police presence is always maintained in the area ​near ​the ⁠Israeli consulate. Television footage showed armed ​police patrolling in ​the ⁠area after the shooting.

Daily Sabah reported that three people were “neutralized” after the shootout.

Broadcaster NTV said one gunman was captured injured, and the other one was killed.

Unconfirmed reports say the suspects fired at police officers stationed near the building, which is located in a key business hub also housing the headquarters of Türkiye’s major banks, according to Daily Sabah. 

It is unknown at this time whether the assailants targeted the consulate.