U.S. Marines Brutally Attacked by Turkish Nationalists

A mob of Turkish nationalists violently attacked U.S. Marines in western Turkey on Monday, resulting in the arrests of 15 people. The incident, captured on video, has sparked outrage and condemnation.

Izmir, Turkey - A group of Turkish nationalists launched a brazen attack against U.S. Marines in the western Turkish city of Izmir on Monday, leaving the service members battered and humiliated.

U.S. Marines Brutally Attacked by Turkish Nationalists

The incident unfolded as American troops assigned to the USS Wasp were walking through the city's Konak district, located on the Aegean coast. According to authorities, the assailants belonged to the Youth Union of Turkey, a nationalist group affiliated with the Vatan Party.

Disturbing footage of the attack, which was widely circulated on social media, shows the American Marines in civilian clothing being physically assaulted and verbally abused. The assailants restrained the Marines, threw plastic bags over their heads, and taunted them with chants of "Yankee, go home!"

U.S. Marines Brutally Attacked by Turkish Nationalists

Five fellow U.S. service members intervened to protect their comrades, while Turkish authorities swiftly responded and apprehended all 15 attackers.

The American Marines, who were not immediately identified, reportedly sustained physical injuries in the attack. Authorities described them as "physically attacked," despite their official designation as "soldiers."

U.S. Marines Brutally Attacked by Turkish Nationalists

The U.S. Embassy in Turkey confirmed the incident in a statement, emphasizing that the Marines are safe and that the Turkish authorities are conducting an investigation.

"We can confirm reports that U.S. service members embarked aboard the USS Wasp were the victims of an assault in İzmir today, and are now safe," the embassy said. "We thank Turkish authorities for their rapid response and ongoing investigation."

U.S. Marines Brutally Attacked by Turkish Nationalists

In a statement obtained by Reuters, the Youth Union of Turkey claimed responsibility for the attack, justifying it as retribution for U.S. support of Israel.

"U.S. soldiers who carry the blood of our soldiers and thousands of Palestinians on their hands cannot dirty our country," the nationalists declared. "Every time you step foot in these lands, we will meet you the way you deserve."

The attack on the U.S. Marines has drawn widespread condemnation from international leaders and organizations. The United States has called on Turkey to hold the perpetrators accountable and ensure the safety of American citizens in the country.

The incident has strained relations between Turkey and the United States, which have been tense in recent years over a range of issues, including Ankara's purchase of Russian missiles and its military operations in Syria.

Some analysts have accused Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's government of exploiting the attack for political gain, using it to stoke anti-American sentiment and appeal to his nationalist base.

The Turkish authorities continue to investigate the incident, and it remains to be seen whether the attackers will face serious consequences. The outcome of the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings will have implications for the security of American personnel in Turkey and the overall state of bilateral relations.