Thu Dec 25 12:54:43 UTC 2025: Summary:

Turkish security forces have arrested over 100 suspected ISIS operatives in Istanbul, disrupting planned attacks on Christmas and New Year celebrations. Raids across 124 locations led to the seizure of firearms, ammunition, and organizational documents. The suspects were reportedly planning attacks against non-Muslims and were in contact with ISIS operatives abroad. These arrests are part of Turkey’s ongoing efforts against ISIS, which it considers a major terrorist threat. The operation follows previous arrests and coincides with US strikes against ISIS in Syria and the Syrian government’s pledge to combat the group.

News Article:

Istanbul Raids Disrupt Planned Holiday Attacks, Over 100 Suspected ISIS Operatives Arrested

Istanbul, Turkey – Turkish security forces have thwarted potential attacks targeting Christmas and New Year celebrations in Istanbul, arresting 115 suspected ISIS operatives in a series of raids across the city on Thursday.

According to the Istanbul chief prosecutor’s office, the operation, which spanned 124 locations, was prompted by intelligence indicating that ISIS members were planning attacks specifically targeting non-Muslims during the holiday period.

During the sweeps, officers seized firearms, ammunition, and organizational documents. Authorities are still searching for 22 remaining suspects connected to the alleged plot.

The arrested individuals are believed to have been involved in financing ISIS activities and spreading its propaganda, maintaining contact with ISIS operatives outside of Turkey, underscoring the transnational nature of the threat.

Turkey has designated ISIS as a terrorist organization since 2013 and has arrested thousands for alleged affiliation with the group. The country views ISIS as its second-most serious terrorism threat and has increased counter-terrorism efforts.

The operation follows a wave of arrests in March, where nearly 300 suspected ISIS members were detained across 47 provinces. It also comes on the heels of extensive US strikes against ISIS positions in Syria, in response to an ambush that killed American soldiers, and a pledge from the Syrian government to work with the US and European partners to combat the group.

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