Members of the Turkish Youth Union (TGB) assaulted two US soldiers in Izmir, western Turkey, as confirmed by both the US embassy and local authorities.
The attack occurred in the Konak district while the soldiers, who were in civilian attire, were approached by the assailants. Five other American soldiers intervened to help.
Turkish police have since detained 15 individuals involved in the assault, and an investigation is currently in progress.
The US embassy confirmed that the soldiers, who are part of the USS Wasp crew, are safe. The White House has expressed concern over the incident but acknowledged the prompt response from Turkish authorities.
The Turkish US Embassy also confirmed the attack, emphasizing that the soldiers are now secure.
The TGB, affiliated with the nationalist Vatan Party, released a video of the assault and condemned US forces, accusing them of being responsible for violence against their soldiers and Palestinians. They asserted that US soldiers are unwelcome in Turkey and warned of further hostile receptions.
Known for its anti-American stance, the TGB has previously targeted US military personnel in Turkey. Earlier, the group posted a video on X showing an individual being restrained and hooded on the street while chanting slogans.
This incident adds to the tension in US-Turkey relations, which are already strained due to Turkey’s purchase of Russian defense systems and differing positions on the Israel-Gaza conflict.
