Three people have been killed and two police officers injured in a gunfire incident near the building housing the Israeli consulate in the Turkish city of Istanbul, according to Turkish media reports. The incident occurred in a densely populated area that includes many businesses, including international ones, with thousands of people working nearby.

Gunfire and Casualties

According to Al Jazeera’s Sinem Koseoglu, three people were involved in the gunfire but have been ‘eliminated’ by Turkish police; a Reuters news agency video showed a police officer pulling out a gun and taking cover as gunshots resounded. One person was seen covered in blood.

Witness Account

The eyewitness that Koseoglu spoke to said he was just smoking with his colleague when three people came in a car and tried to open fire. Security forces then fired back to stop the attackers — the Israeli consulate is located on the seventh floor of one tall building in the area, according to Koseoglu.

No Israeli Diplomats Present

There are no Israeli diplomats serving in the consulate building in Istanbul, and no Israeli diplomats in the Israeli embassy in the Turkish capital of Ankara. This means the employees inside those diplomatic missions are mostly locals who are working for the consulate or embassy, Koseoglu added.

Attackers’ Motives Unknown

There were no details yet on the identity or motives of the attackers; the Israeli consulate in Istanbul is a high-profile diplomatic mission, and the attack has drawn attention from local and international observers. The area is known for its busy streets and commercial activity.

Security Measures

The eyewitness account suggests that the attackers arrived in a car and attempted to open fire, as Security forces responded immediately, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the deaths of the three attackers. The two injured police officers are reportedly receiving medical treatment.

Local and International Reactions

Turkish authorities have not yet released official statements regarding the incident, but local media has reported the event as a significant occurrence in Istanbul, but the Israeli government has not commented on the attack, but diplomatic channels are likely to be involved in any further investigations.

Context of the Area

The area where the Israeli consulate is located is known for its commercial activity and international presence; the building housing the consulate is part of a larger complex that includes other businesses and offices. This makes the area a common location for both local and international travelers.

Developing Situation

This is a developing news story, and more information is expected as the investigation continues; Turkish authorities are likely to conduct a thorough review of the incident, including reviewing the security measures in place at the consulate.