Greece condemns New Year’s eve attack in Turkey

The Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has condemned the terrorist attack on an Istanbul night club on Sunday where more than 39 people were killed and more than 60 injured.

Tsipras sent his condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Turkey through Turkey’s Ambassador to Greece, Yaşar Çevik.

“Sincere condolences to the families of the victims of the heinous terrorist attack in Istanbul. The Greek people stand in solidarity to the people of Turkey in these difficult times. We must increase our cooperation so that 2017 is a year of peace and security,” Tsipras had messaged on social media.

The attacker, dressed as Santa, entered the nightclub around 1:15 am on Sunday and opened fire at more than 500 clubbers who were seeing in the New Year. Witnesses said they heard the man yelling in Arabic.

The Greek Foreign Ministry also released a statement condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with the Turkish people.

“We unequivocally condemn the barbaric terrorist attack with numerous casualties that occurred in the nightclub in Istanbul”, an announcement by Greece’s foreign ministry said.

“We express our full solidarity with the Turkish people and convey heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wishes of a speedy recovery to the injured.”

According to reports, at least one gunman is on the run, while it is unclear exactly how many attackers were present.

Some witnesses spoke of multiple attackers, but officials have not confirmed this.

“A manhunt for the terrorist is under way”, Turkey’s interior minister Suleyman Soylu told the press.

“Police have launched operations. We hope the attacker will be captured soon.”