U.S. Consulate in Istanbul cites possible threat, cancels consular services

(Reuters) - The U.S. Consulate in Istanbul said on Tuesday it had canceled consular services for Wednesday because of "information about a possible security threat" against the mission. "We strongly encourage U.S. citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster your personal security," the consulate added in a statement on its website. In Washington, State Department spokesman John Kirby told reporters that routine consular services had been canceled but that limited, urgent services would be provided. Other U.S. diplomatic missions in Turkey - in Ankara, Izmir and Adana - will operate normally, the statement said. It did not elaborate on the possible threat. (Reporting by Mohammad Zargham and Arshad Mohammed in Washington; Editing by Chris Reese and Peter Cooney)