Suicide Bombing in Istanbul’s Tourist District Leaves 10 Dead

At least 10 people, many believed to be German tourists, were killed by a suicide bomber this morning near a historic district of Istanbul.

Another 15 were injured in the blast at Sultanahmet Square, near the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, a major tourist hub for the city. Turkey’s Dogan news agency says at least six Germans, one Norwegian, and one Peruvian are among the injured.

Authorities believe the bomber was a Syrian national and the attack was planned by the Islamic State.

The Danish Foreign Ministry issued a travel advisory cautioning travelers to avoid public places “until further notice.” Germany also warned its citizens to avoid crowds outside tourist attractions in Istanbul.

Photo courtesy: Ilker R. Kapaç

— Jessica Montevago