Two U.S. Service Members Assaulted by Group in Turkey

On Monday, two U.S. service members were attacked in Izmir, Turkey, but have since been confirmed safe, according to statements from the U.S. Embassy in Turkey and the local governor’s office.

The U.S. Embassy revealed on social media that service members aboard the USS Wasp were victims of this assault. They expressed gratitude to Turkish authorities for their swift actions and the ongoing investigation into the incident.

According to the local governor’s office, a group consisting of 15 individuals—two women and 13 men—affiliated with the Turkish Youth Union (TGB) assaulted the U.S. soldiers, who were in civilian attire at the time. This organization is known for its anti-American and anti-imperialist stance and is associated with the nationalist Vatan Party in Turkey.

In addition to the two assaulted service members, five other U.S. soldiers witnessed the attack from a distance and intervened. The local police quickly responded to the situation, ensuring the safety of those involved.

Following the incident, local authorities detained 15 suspects and initiated a judicial investigation to address the matter. The swift action reflects strong cooperation between U.S. military personnel and Turkish officials in ensuring the security of foreign military members in the country.

The USS Wasp had docked in Izmir just the day before as part of a routine port visit, which is common for U.S. naval vessels in international waters. The local governor’s office reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for both local citizens and visiting service members.

The incident has raised concerns regarding the safety of U.S. military personnel abroad, particularly in regions with high tensions between local populations and foreign military presence. The Turkish Youth Union’s participation in the attack underscores the complex relationship between the U.S. and certain nationalist groups in Turkey.

As investigations progress, both U.S. and Turkish authorities are expected to release further details pertaining to the motives behind the attack and any potential ramifications for the individuals involved.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by international military forces stationed in different countries, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and support from local authorities to safeguard service members.

The U.S. Embassy remains vigilant and is closely monitoring the situation as the investigation unfolds, reflecting the broader commitment to the safety and security of military personnel deployed around the world.