A chilling security concern is emerging for British travelers visiting Turkey.
Over a dozen convicted extremists, including a man responsible for the murder of a British woman, are reportedly living freely in Istanbul after being released from Israeli prisons.
Experts warn this could pose a serious risk to the four million Britons who visit Turkey each year.
From Prison to the Streets of Istanbul
Ishaq Taher Salah Arafah, 39, is one of the most notorious figures among them.
He was convicted of murdering Scottish-born Bible translator Mary Jane Gardner, 59, in a 2011 bombing in Israel.
Now, social media posts show him casually meeting family in hotels, strolling the streets, and even giving interviews to sympathetic media outlets.
In a July interview with Al Jazeera, Arafah ominously declared that “God willing” Jerusalem would be destroyed, highlighting the ongoing extremism even after his release.
The Controversial Prison Swap
Arafah and others were freed as part of a controversial deal.
Israel released dozens of terrorists in exchange for hostages held by Hamas and allied groups—a key component of the initial phase of Donald Trump’s peace plan.
Last month, the Daily Mail revealed that 154 life-sentenced terrorists were temporarily housed in a five-star Cairo hotel during a similar exchange.
Now, at least 15 of these previously jailed Hamas and Palestinian extremists, including Arafah, are reported to be living openly in Turkey.
A Fatal Attack Recalled
Arafah’s past crime remains haunting.
The bomb that killed Ms. Gardner was planted in a plastic bag near a bus station in Jerusalem.
Sentenced to life in prison, he served just 14 years before walking free this January.
Warnings from Security Experts
Professor Anthony Glees, a leading authority on terrorism, has raised serious concerns for British holidaymakers.
“This isn’t just a political issue—it’s a serious security concern,” he said.
“Groups like Hamas have a documented history of targeting Westerners.
With the festive season approaching, the risk of attacks or hostage situations rises.”
Turkey’s Open Borders and Security Challenges
Turkey’s border policies, long criticized for being lax, may be compounding the danger.
Former Israeli intelligence officials claim that Palestinian extremist groups are able to operate freely, train in neighboring Syria, and move into Europe with little restriction.
Security authorities have accused Turkey of turning a blind eye to these threats.
The Turkish government has not responded to questions about what, if any, protections are in place for British tourists visiting the country.
What Should Tourists Know?
As these extremists continue to live openly, holidaymakers may unknowingly cross paths with dangerous individuals.
With both the historical violence and the ongoing ideological threats, experts stress vigilance is essential for anyone planning travel to Turkey.
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