We condemn in the strongest possible terms the terrorist attack which struck Istanbul on New Year’s Eve and present our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wish steady recovery to the injured.

This attack bears similarities with previous attacks realised in France, the United States and Tunisia. This odious attack which led to the massacre of innocent civilians has targeted Istanbul as a cultural center, lifestyle preferences and the joy of living. Furthermore, this attack shows the horrendous scale of global terror threat and underscores the urgency to forge a common front against this scourge. Although it is important to note that this attack has been unanimously condemned by the United States, the EU, Russia and Iran, it is critical to go beyond such supportive messages and for international cooperation against global terrorism to be effective.

Ayhan Zeytinoğlu
IKV Chairman