24/10/2024

Attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries prompts global condemnation, Erdogan vows retaliation as Turkish military launches indiscriminate bombing campaign on population centers in North and East Syria

ANKARA / NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — As discussions about peace between the Turkish government and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) seemed to be gaining momentum, gunmen launched a deadly attack on the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries near Ankara, resulting in 4 deaths and 14 injuries.

Turkish media reported that the attack included a suicide bombing, with one of the attackers detonating an explosive device at the company’s headquarters.

The attack drew widespread international condemnation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, along with the Algerian Presidency, expressed solidarity with Turkey. Jordan also strongly condemned the attack, affirming its support for Turkey. In addition, the Saudi Embassy in Turkey issued a statement, and other nations, including Egypt, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, the US, NATO, and Germany, condemned the violence.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan denounced the attack as “despicable,” claiming it targeted Turkey’s survival and safety. He vowed to continue the “resolute fight” against all forms of threats and their supporters.

In what appeared to be retaliatory artillery and airstrikes strikes, Turkey began indiscriminately bombing population centers in North and East Syria, resulting in civilian casualties, including children.