Hamas condemns terror attack in Türkiye

The Palestinian Hamas organisation has condemned the recent terrorist attack in Ankara, expressing its solidarity with the Turkish leadership and people.

Hamas conveyed deep and sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery to the injured, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

An armed assault targeted the facilities of the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) headquarters near Ankara. An explosion occurred at the entrance gates of the TUSAŞ building on Kahramankazan Boulevard, followed by the sound of gunfire. Personnel were directed to shelters as a safety precaution.

Two attackers killed five people and injured 22. The attack, marked by gunfire and explosions, left two of the injured in critical condition, according to Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, who confirmed both assailants were neutralised. 

Yerlikaya linked the attack to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), describing the style as characteristic of PKK tactics. An investigation is underway, and further details are expected after confirmation of the attackers' identities. 

Following the attack, Turkish air forces launched retaliatory airstrikes on PKK targets in northern Iraq and Syria, destroying 32 sites and reportedly killing many members of the group, according to the Turkish Ministry of Defence. 

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, attending a BRICS summit in Russia, condemned the attack, with Russian President Vladimir Putin and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte offering condolences. 

NATO, the US, and the EU also condemned the assault. TUSAŞ, Türkiye's largest aerospace manufacturer, produces military and civilian helicopters and is developing the country's first indigenous fighter jet, KAAN. The company employs over 10,000 people and is owned by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation and the government.

By Naila Huseynova