Syrian Woman Sentenced to 1,790 Years for Istanbul Bombing That Killed 6

Ahlam Albashir, a Syrian national, has been sentenced to 1,790 years plus seven life terms for her role in the November 2022 bombing on Istanbul's Istiklal Avenue. The attack killed six Turkish citizens and injured around 100 people. "Albashir was identified as the person who planted the bomb," according to court records.

The court handed down prison sentences ranging from 4 years to life for more than 20 other defendants, with six of them receiving aggravated life sentences for "disrupting the unity and integrity of the state" and "intentional murder". Turkey blamed Kurdish militants for the attack, saying the order was given in Kobani, northern Syria. However, the Kurdish militia and the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) denied involvement, and no group has claimed responsibility.

Why this matters: The sentencing of Albashir and other defendants is part of Turkey's ongoing crackdown on Kurdish militants and their supporters following the deadly bombing. The attack on Istanbul's main shopping street highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by Turkey and the complex dynamics of the conflict between the Turkish government and Kurdish groups.

Istanbul has been targeted by various militant groups in the past, with a wave of bombings and attacks occurring nationwide since the breakdown of a ceasefire between Ankara and the PKK in 2015. "Istanbul has been targeted by various militant groups in the past," underscoring the city's vulnerability to such attacks.

The lengthy sentence given to Albashir, totaling 1,790 years plus seven life terms, reflects the severity of the charges and the Turkish judiciary's stance against those involved in terrorist activities. The court's decision sends a strong message of condemnation for the attack and the lives lost on that fateful day in November 2022.

Key Takeaways

• Syrian national Ahlam Albashir sentenced to 1,790 years + 7 life terms for 2022 Istanbul bombing.
• Over 20 other defendants received sentences ranging from 4 years to life, with 6 getting aggravated life.
• Turkey blamed Kurdish militants, but they denied involvement; no group claimed responsibility.
• Sentencing part of Turkey's crackdown on Kurdish militants after deadly attack on Istanbul's main street.
• Istanbul has been targeted by various militant groups, highlighting the city's vulnerability to such attacks.