Turkey detains hundreds of Isis suspects after deadly shootout

Wednesday, December 31, 2025 -Turkish authorities have launched one of the most significant counter-terrorism operations in recent months, detaining hundreds of suspected members of the Islamic State (ISIS) following a deadly shootout in the north-western province of Yalova. 

The confrontation erupted during a police raid on a suspected extremist hideout and resulted in the deaths of three police officers and at least six militants, with additional security personnel wounded. In coordinated actions across 21 provinces, security forces took roughly 357 suspects into custody in simultaneous raids targeting alleged ISIS networks in major cities including Istanbul and Ankara.

Officials say the nationwide sweep is part of an escalating effort to dismantle cells believed to be planning attacks during the holiday period. Interior Ministry officials emphasized the state’s resolve to disrupt extremist activity and protect public safety, citing intelligence that prompted pre-emptive raids on dozens of locations. 

Authorities also seized digital materials and organizational documents allegedly linking detainees to broader ISIS operations.

The surge in detentions reflects Turkey’s heightened vigilance amid a global uptick in ISIS-affiliated activity, even as the group no longer controls significant territory in Iraq and Syria. 

Security analysts warn that the threat of underground networks and lone-actor attacks remains real, particularly during periods of increased public gatherings. Turkey’s actions underscore the ongoing challenge governments face in countering extremist threats while maintaining security nationwide.