Keating: America Stands with Turkey Against Terrorism

Passengers embrace each other at the entrance to Istanbul’s Ataturk airport, early Wednesday, June 29, 2016 following their evacuation after a blast. Suspected Islamic State group extremists have hit the international terminal of Istanbul’s Ataturk airport, killing dozens of people and wounding many others, Turkish officials said Tuesday. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey. (AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) TURKEY OUT

WASHINGTON – Congressman William Keating has issued a statement on Tuesday’s terrorist attack in Istanbul, saying the United States stands with the people of Turkey.

Keating is the lead Democrat on the Terrorism Subcommittee of the Foreign Affairs Committee, as well as a Member of the Homeland Security Committee.

His 9^th District includes Cape Cod and the Islands.

“I wish to extend my deepest condolences to all the victims and the families of those killed in the brutal attack on Turkey’s Ataturk Airport,” he said in a statement.

“I was at Ataturk Airport just this past May on a Congressional Delegation throughout the region to discuss counterterrorism policy,” said Keating.

At least 36 people were killed and many others wounded Tuesday in the attack. Turkish officials say three suspected Islamic State group suicide bombers were responsible.

In Massachusetts, State Police say they will continue to monitor developments from the attack. They say the security operation at Boston’s airport includes patrol and tactical police assets that are visible to travelers and as well as additional security measures that remain unseen.

“Unfortunately, the nature of yesterday’s attack also underscores the need for a robust security posture at transportation centers – particularly airports and rail hubs. As the lead Democrat of the Terrorism subcommittee, I have worked tirelessly with my colleagues and appropriate Departments to ensure our county’s airports are secure,” said Keating.

In April, Keating introduced the Airport Perimeter and Access Control Security of 2016, which requires the Transportation Security Authority to modernize and enhance airport perimeter security by consistently updating their risk assessments.