Shots fired at US embassy in Turkey

Several shots were fired at the US Embassy in the Turkish capital of Ankara on Monday but no casualties have been reported, police said.

"We can confirm a security incident took place at the US Embassy early this morning. We have no reports of any injuries and we are investigating the details," David Gainer, the spokesperson of the US Embassy told the Hurriyet Daily News.

"We thank the Turkish National Police for their rapid response," he added.

CNNTürk reported that the drive-by shooting occurred at around 5 a.m. and the assailants fled in a car. The police has launched an investigation into the attack.

The Governor's Office said in a statement that six shots were fired and three bullets hit the metal door and glass panel of the security cabin.

"Armed attack against the US embassy is a clear provocation. Embassies are under the protection of our state," the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) spokesman Omer Celik said.

The incident comes as ties between Ankara and Washington are in an unprecedented crisis over the continued detention of Pastor Andrew Brunson.

The US administration has imposed sanctions and vows to do more against Turkey in case the pastor is not released immediately.

The US embassy in Ankara and the consulate in Istanbul have been the targets of attacks by militants and have faced numerous security threats in the past.

--IANS

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