Turkish Youth Group Attacks US Marines in Izmir

On Monday, two US Marines were physically assaulted in Izmir, Turkey, by members of the nationalist Youth Union of Turkey (TGB), leading to the detention of 15 assailants. The incident occurred as the Marines were on leave from the USS Wasp, which was docked in the port for a routine visit. A video circulating online shows the attackers placing a hood over one Marine's head while chanting anti-American slogans. The US Embassy confirmed the Marines' safety and expressed appreciation for the Turkish authorities' prompt action. TGB claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that US soldiers have 'Palestinian blood' on their hands, reflecting ongoing tensions surrounding US-Turkey relations and criticisms of US support for Israel. This incident exacerbates already strained relations between the two NATO allies, which have faced numerous disputes in recent years.