Turkish Intelligence Warned of Likely Terror Attack Ahead of Istanbul Blast

Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT) warned the police and security services twice in recent weeks that terrorist attacks against foreign tourists and diplomatic missions in the country were likely, local media reported Wednesday, a day after the deadly blast in Istanbul.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — According to the Hurriyet newspaper, MIT issued its warnings on December 17 and January 4, in which it was said that potential attacks could target citizens of countries that are fighting against Daesh (Islamic State).

The intelligence service also warned the diplomatic missions of several countries, including Germany, and provided the names of 13 potential suicide bombers.

According to the newspaper, nine women and 10 men, mostly Syrian citizens, are wanted on suspicion of preparing attacks against foreigners in Turkey.

The Istanbul explosion claimed a total of 10 lives and injured 15 people. Most of the victims of the attack were German. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called the incident a terrorist act, adding that it was perpetrated by a Syrian suicide bomber, while Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu claimed that the attack was linked to Daesh, which is outlawed in several countries including Russia.

Turkey is part of the US-led international coalition that is countering Daesh in Iraq and Syria.