An explosion occurs in Taksim Square in Istanbul, Turkey, killing five people and injuring 36.
A somber day dawned in Istanbul on March 19, 2016, when a devastating suicide bombing struck the vibrant Beyoğlu district, a bustling heart of the city known for its historic charm and lively atmosphere. The attack unfolded at 10:55 AM Eastern European Time (EET), specifically at the intersection of Balo Street and the iconic İstiklal Avenue, a sprawling pedestrian thoroughfare synonymous with shopping, culture, and daily life for both locals and tourists, located directly in front of the district governor's office.
The Tragic Toll
This horrific act claimed at least five lives, a count that included the perpetrator themselves. Beyond the fatalities, a significant number of people sustained injuries; thirty-six individuals were wounded, with seven of them suffering severe injuries that required urgent medical attention. The cosmopolitan nature of İstiklal Avenue meant that among those caught in the blast were twelve foreign tourists, highlighting the global impact of such senseless violence. Adding to the heartbreak, two of the victims who perished held dual Israeli-US nationality.
Investigation and Attribution
In the immediate aftermath, Turkish authorities launched a swift investigation. Just three days later, on March 22, the Turkish Interior Minister publicly confirmed that the individual responsible for the bombing had established links with ISIL, also known as Daesh, indicating a clear connection to the extremist group. This revelation brought a chilling clarity to the motives behind the brutal attack that shattered a peaceful Saturday morning in one of Istanbul's most cherished areas.