A disturbing video has emerged showing a mob of Turkish nationalists attacking U.S. Marines in Izmir, leading to the arrests of 15 people. The incident has sparked outrage and condemnation both in the United States and Turkey.
On Monday, a disturbing incident unfolded in Izmir, Turkey, as a mob of Turkish nationalists attacked U.S. Marines who were part of the crew of the USS Wasp. According to the Izmir governor's office, the assailants were affiliated with the Youth Union of Turkey, which is connected to the nationalist Vatan Party.
Disturbing video footage captured by witnesses shows the U.S. Marines, who were dressed in civilian clothing, being held back by a group of anti-American men who shouted "Yankee, go home!" The video also shows an attacker throwing a plastic bag onto a victim's head while the crowd chanted.
Turkish Nationalists Assault U.S. Marines in Izmir, Sparking International Outrage
Five U.S. service members intervened to protect their fellow Marines from the attackers. Turkish authorities subsequently arrested all 15 of the men who were involved in the incident.
The U.S. Embassy in Turkey swiftly confirmed the incident and expressed gratitude to Turkish authorities for their rapid response and ongoing investigation. The embassy also acknowledged that the Marines are safe and accounted for.
Turkish Nationalists Assault U.S. Marines in Izmir, Sparking International Outrage
In a statement released after the attack, the Youth Union of Turkey defended its actions, claiming that the Marines "deserved" the assault due to U.S. support of Israel. The nationalists stated, "Every time you step foot in these lands, we will meet you the way you deserve."
The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from both U.S. and Turkish officials. The U.S. State Department condemned the attack in a statement, calling it "unprovoked and unacceptable." Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also denounced the violence, vowing to hold those responsible accountable.
Turkish Nationalists Assault U.S. Marines in Izmir, Sparking International Outrage
Turkish authorities are currently investigating the incident thoroughly. The arrested individuals are facing charges of assault, hate speech, and inciting violence. The investigation aims to establish the motives behind the attack and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The attack on U.S. Marines comes amid ongoing tensions between Turkey and the United States over a range of issues, including Turkey's purchase of Russian weapons, its military operations in Syria, and its human rights record. The incident has further strained relations between the two NATO allies.
Turkish Nationalists Assault U.S. Marines in Izmir, Sparking International Outrage
Despite the tensions, both sides have expressed a desire to improve relations through dialogue and cooperation. The incident has highlighted the need for greater understanding and mutual respect between Turkey and the United States to prevent further confrontations and build a more secure and stable region.
