US embassy calls on citizens not to go to Beyoğlu
The U.S. embassy in Turkey has warned Americans of possible attacks against churches, synagogues, and diplomatic missions in Istanbul, marking its second such notice in four days, following Quran-burning incidents in Europe.
Duvar English
The U.S. embassy in Turkey has issued a new warning, calling on its citizens to stay away from tourist destinations such as Beyoğlu, Galata, Taksim and İstiklal areas.
In its statement, the embassy said: “The U.S. government cautions its citizens of possible imminent retaliatory attacks by terrorists against churches, synagogues, and diplomatic missions in Istanbul or other places Westerners frequent, especially in the Beyoglu, Galata, Taksim, and Istiklal areas. Turkish authorities are investigating this matter. This message updates the January 27, 2023 security alert regarding Quran-burning incidents in Europe.”
On Jan. 27, several embassies in Ankara including those of the U.S., Germany, France and Italy issued security alerts over possible retaliatory attacks against places of worship, following separate incidents in which the Muslim holy book, the Quran, was burned in Sweden, Netherlands and Denmark.
On Jan. 28, Turkey warned its citizens against "possible Islamophobic, xenophobic and racist attacks" in the U.S. and Europe.