Counterterrorism Operation Against ISIS in Yalova and Its Human Cost

On 29 December 2025, Turkey awoke to painful news from Yalova, where a counterterrorism operation against the Islamic State turned into one of the most tragic episodes of the country’s recent fight against extremism. The Minister of Interior, Ali Yerlikaya, addressed the nation with a statement that combined operational details with a deep sense of loss, reminding the public that counterterrorism is not only a matter of security policy, but also one of human sacrifice.

The operation was part of a broader nationwide effort carried out simultaneously in 15 provinces, targeting 108 locations linked to ISIS networks. According to official figures, the previous month alone had already seen dozens of arrests and judicial measures against suspects involved in terrorist activities. These operations reflected the state’s determination to prevent violence before it could reach civilians, even when such efforts placed security forces in grave danger.

In Yalova, the operation began at approximately 2.00 am in the İsmet Paşa neighborhood. As police units approached the targeted residence, they were met with gunfire from ISIS militants inside the building. What followed was a fierce and deadly clash. Three police officers lost their lives while carrying out their duty, leaving behind grieving families, colleagues, and a nation in mourning. Eight other police officers and one neighborhood guard were wounded, bearing physical scars that reflect the cost of confronting terrorism face to face.

Despite the chaos and violence, the operation was conducted with extraordinary care due to the presence of civilians inside the residence. Five women and six children were safely evacuated, a detail that underlines the difficult moral balance security forces must maintain between neutralizing threats and protecting innocent lives. Six terrorists were killed during the clash, and authorities later confirmed that they were Turkish citizens, a reminder that radicalization can emerge from within society itself.

The operation concluded at 9.40 am, but its emotional impact extended far beyond its official end time. In his statement, Minister Yerlikaya described the fallen officers as heroes who walked toward martyrdom while fulfilling their duty to protect public peace. His words reflected not only institutional resolve, but also collective grief. Condolences were offered to the families of the fallen officers, and prayers were expressed for the recovery of those injured.

Ultimately, the Yalova operation serves as a stark reminder that counterterrorism is fought not only through intelligence reports and strategic planning, but through the courage of individuals who put their lives on the line. Behind every operation are human stories of loss, resilience, and sacrifice, underscoring that the struggle against terrorism is as much about protecting lives as it is about preserving the moral fabric of society.

Soruce: https://www.icisleri.gov.tr/icisleri-bakanimiz-sayin-ali-yerlikaya-yalovada-deas-teror-orgutune-yonelik-yapilan-operasyon-ile-ilgili-basin-aciklamasi-yapti#:~:text=“İsmet%20Paşa%20Mahallesi%2C%20Seher%20Sokak,ve%201%20bekçimiz%20de%20yaralanmıştır.