(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) The United States Navy on Wednesday said it is working with Turkish authorities to investigate an attack on its sailors in Istanbul, and reaffirmed its "strong relationship" with its NATO ally.
A video posted online showed a group of Turkish youth verbally and physically harassing US personnel who appeared to be off duty at the time. The US Navy said there were "approximately 20 individuals, claiming to be from the Turkish Youth Union." The group is against Turkish membership in the EU as well as strong ties to the US, according to their website.
Pentagon Spokesperson Colonel Steve Warren called the attack "ugly and disturbing" and said the "thugs on the street... bring great discredit upon the Turks and the Turkish reputation for hospitality." In a statement, the NAVY confirmed that the sailors "managed to remove themselves from the situation without sustaining injuries and are safely back aboard USS Ross." The ship was on "a scheduled port visit" in Istanbul," it added.
"The US Navy is currently working with the Turkish National Police and US Embassy staff to investigate this incident. The US Navy will continue to coordinate with Turkish authorities to review security procedures for future ship visits," the statement said.
"As NATO allies, we share common interests, and this incident will not diminish that strong relationship. Turkish ports have long been very popular destinations for US Navy ships, and our Sailors have enjoyed the warm hospitality that has traditionally been extended," it concluded.
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