US, Turkish defense chiefs discuss Istanbul attack

“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 Işık that the Defense Department stood 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 Işık on reports of selfless acts by Turkish security personnel at the airport during this attack,” Trowbridge said.