Suicide Bombers Attack Turkey’s Airport
The world is stunned again by another ISIS-related attack that killed 41 people and injured more than two hundred in Istanbul’s busy Ataturk Airport.
According to media reports, three terrorists arrived in a cab and carried out the assault, opened fire and set off at least two explosions. They blew themselves up after police fired back.
An account of one witness who was identified as Hacer Peksen described the carnage as terrifying. He told The Associated Press, “People were wounded, people fell down in front of me … They were torn to pieces.”
The death toll is expected to rise. Among those dead included least 13 foreigners and 3 dual nationals.
The airport is one of the busiest in Europe and prominent for its tight security. The airport’s security is one of the best in the world and has been hailed in the immediate aftermath for potentially saving dozens of lives.
Aftermath of the Attack is a Terrifying Image
The aftermath of the attack left the airport’s arrival area flooded with blood and the terrifying image of destruction.
Pictures from the airport terminal showed bodies covered in sheets, a bloody airport entrance, shattered glasses and abandoned luggage littered the building.
Terrorism Knows No Border
Turkey’s President Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attack that transpired during the holy month of Ramadan and warned other nations that terrorism knows no borders.
“The bombs that exploded in Istanbul today could have gone off at any airport in any city,” he said in a statement. “Make no mistake: For terrorist organizations, there is no difference between Istanbul and London, Ankara and Berlin, Izmir and Chicago.”
US Condemns the Attack
The United States of America also issued a statement condemning the deadly terror attack and vowed solidarity with the key U.S ally.
Hillary Clinton, the presumptive Democratic nominee, responded to the attacks with a statement of solidarity.
“Terrorists have struck again in the heart of one of our NATO allies – and all Americans stand united with the people of Turkey against this campaign of hatred and violence.” – Hillary Clinton.
She stressed the need for the U.S. to “deepen our cooperation with our allies and partners in the Middle East” to counter the threat of terrorism.
She added, “Such cooperation is essential to protecting the homeland and keeping our country safe.”
