US, Turkish defense chiefs discuss Istanbul attack

By Kasim Ileri

WASHINGTON (AA) – Defense Secretary Ash Carter called Turkish Defense Minister Fikri Isik on Wednesday to condemn a deadly terror attack at an airport in Turkey.

“Secretary Carter strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Istanbul as a cowardly assault on a stalwart NATO ally and enduring partner in our efforts to confront the threat of terrorism,” Pentagon spokesman Gordon Trowbridge said in a statement.

Carter told Isik that the Defense Department stands with the Turkish people during a time of national mourning.

The two leaders reiterated a commitment to work closely “to defeat terrorists of any kind.”

“The Secretary also commended Minister Isik on reports of selfless acts by Turkish security personnel at the airport during this attack,” Trowbridge said.

A Turkish police officer reportedly smothered one attacker to prevent him from moving further into the airport before detonating an explosive vest.

In one viral video on the Internet, another officer is seen wounding a suicide bomber just seconds before he blew himself up.

According to Turkish authorities, three suicide bombers attacked Ataturk Airport, one of the busiest international hubs, with automatic assault rifles and explosive vests.

Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said initial indications suggested Daesh was responsible for the attack that killed 41 victims and wounded 239 others.