Statement of Turkey’s President Erdoğan on attack in İstanbul: ‘Unfortunately, we have martyrs’

President Erdoğan gave his first statement after two blasts in İstanbul’s Vodafone Arena in Beşiktaş. Stating that they were attacks aimed at security forces and citizens, Erdoğan said: “As a result of these acts, unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured. I wish our martyrs blessings of Allah and quick recovery for the wounded… In İstanbul tonight, we have once again witnessed the most wicked face of terror, which steps over all values and morals. It is understood that the explosions that took place immediately after the match of Beşiktaş – Bursa Sport were aimed at causing as many loses of life as possible. The name and methods of these attacks which we have been through many times in recent years have no significance. PKK, DAESH, FETÖ, and all other terrorist groups have been attacking our country and nation with the same purpose… Instead of breaking our motivation and determination, these attacks actually sharpen them. No weapon has been invented yet to make a nation that leads its fight by saying ‘I will be a martyr if I die; a veteran, if I live’ turn back from its path… We have the ability and the courage to overcome our problems. Just as we have done with our martyrs who died in our fight against the separatist terrorist organization and those who were martyred on July 15, we are going to keep our loses from tonight’s attack in Beşiktaş; we are going to keep their memories alive; however, at the same time, we are going to keep walking towards our goals in determination…"

Further details will follow...