Turkey has been rocked by a tragic incident that took place on Sunday at the Santa Maria church located in the Saria district of Istanbul. During mass, two gunmen entered the church and opened fire, resulting in the death of one person. The attack has raised concerns about the safety and security of religious communities in the country.
The Interior Ministry of Turkey has reported that at least 47 suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack. Security forces carried out over 30 raids in search of the gunmen. The suspects include individuals from Tajikistan and Russia. Furthermore, the terror group ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack.
According to an audio message released by an ISIS spokesperson in recent weeks, there was a call for ISIS supporters to target Christians and Jews worldwide, which may have motivated the attackers. This attack is the first carried out by ISIS on Turkish soil since the nightclub attack in Istanbul in 2017.
Security footage of the incident has circulated, showing the gunmen entering the church and opening fire. After the attack, the parishioners took cover, and one individual managed to close the church door. The footage depicts the terrifying nature of the incident and the fear experienced by those present.
In the aftermath of the attack, there was an increased security presence in the area, and a massive manhunt took place. The Turkish government and security forces have been actively working to prevent such attacks, conducting numerous operations and arresting several hundred individuals since last summer.
The attack has been widely condemned by all levels of the Turkish government, including President Erdogan. Turkey, a predominantly Muslim nation, was founded on secular ideals, and the government emphasizes the importance of allowing people of various faiths to worship in safety.
The incident has also garnered international attention, with Pope Francis expressing his solidarity with the victims and their community. The Santa Maria church is known for its diverse congregation, with services conducted in different languages to cater to both locals and foreigners.
This attack serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism and the need for heightened security measures. The Turkish government remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens and preserving its secular values in the face of such despicable acts. The global community stands united against these acts of violence and offers its condolences to the victims and their loved ones.
