23rd March 2016 - Turkey: Istanbul, Ankara

Turkey: Istanbul, Ankara: Closure of Dutch consulate in Istanbul highlights need to minimise time spent near potential militant targets

The Dutch consulate in the commercial capital Istanbul (Istanbul province) suspended services on 23 March due to the potential risk of militant attack. The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned its citizens in Istanbul to avoid the vicinity of the consulate, which is located along Istiklal Avenue. Members are advised to minimise time spent in the vicinity of potential militant targets, including foreign diplomatic missions, government and security interests and major transport hubs.

Travel Briefing

Many diplomatic missions are located along Istiklal Avenue, the tourist shopping area which was the scene of a suicide bomb attack that killed five people and injured 36 others on 19 March. The temporary closure of embassies in the capital Ankara and consulates in Istanbul have become more common in response to the militant attacks. The German Embassy in Ankara, the German Consulate in Istanbul and the German School in Istanbul were shut for several days from 17 March due to security concerns and an unconfirmed warning of an attack.

Members should exercise heightened vigilance and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Members in Ankara and Istanbul should also expect a heightened security presence in public squares and around diplomatic missions. To facilitate movement through security checkpoints, members should carry relevant identification documents at all times and take into account potential travel disruption related to possible security operations. Normal travel to Turkey can continue with standard security precautions.

Travel Advice Summary

  • Travel to Ankara and Istanbul can continue; visitors in the short term should carry identification for use at any checkpoints and factor in delays related to security operations. Treat all security force personnel with patience and respect.
  • Exercise vigilance at all times. Report anything suspicious to the authorities and minimise time spent in the vicinity of potential targets such as government, security force and foreign diplomatic interests.
  • Visit our Turkey pages or contact your nearest Assistance Centre for further information and advice regarding travel to the country.