Turkey IS Arrests 115 Suspects Held Over New Year Attacks

Turkey IS arrests 115 suspects in Istanbul raids, stopping planned New Year attacks and seizing weapons linked to Islamic State networks.

Turkish security forces have arrested 115 suspected Islamic State (IS) members during large-scale operations in Istanbul, stopping planned attacks linked to Christmas and New Year celebrations.

According to prosecutors, coordinated raids were carried out at 124 locations across the city. During the operations, police recovered firearms, ammunition, and extremist documents, indicating advanced preparation for attacks.

Authorities revealed that the suspects were allegedly targeting non-Muslim communities and crowded public events. Investigators also confirmed that some detainees were in communication with IS operatives based outside Turkey.

Security officials stated that efforts are ongoing to locate 22 additional suspects believed to be connected to the network.

This development follows a recent intelligence-led operation near the Afghanistan–Pakistan border, where a Turkish national accused of holding a senior IS position was captured. He is suspected of organizing attacks against civilians.

Turkey continues to intensify counter-terrorism actions due to its long border with Syria, where IS remnants remain active. Regional cooperation has increased, with Syrian leadership and Western allies pledging joint action against extremist groups.

Recent US airstrikes in Syria, launched after the killing of American personnel, highlight growing international pressure on IS networks.