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The multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Wasp is in Izmir, Turkey, as part of a joint training exercise with the Turkish Naval Forces.

Prior to arriving, Wasp participated in a bilateral at-sea training with Turkish Navy amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu (L 400) and Turkish Navy frigate TCG Gokova (F-496), Aug. 13-17, 2024, demonstrating enduring cooperation and mutual commitment to maritime security, and offering Sailors and Marines aboard each ship an opportunity to train and operate together. During the training, the two nations conducted cross deck flight operations with MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, a two-day fixed-wing defensive air counter targeting exercise with U.S. AV-8B Harriers and Turkish F-16s, two key leader engagements, and a fixed-wing air defense exercise.

The U.S. embassy in Turkey said that all crew members had been safely returned to the ship after the incident.

While in port, Sailors and Marines will participate in tours organized by the ship's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation team, such as a visit to the Ephesus historical site, snorkeling and scuba diving, and a guided tour of Izmir's cultural sites.

‘I have never been to Türkiye before so, as a fan of history, I am looking forward to discovering Izmir's unique historical sites,' said Master Chief Electrician's Mate Anthony Haywood, Wasp's Maintenance and Material Management Coordinator.

The reason for the assault, according to Turkish media, is because of the U.S.'s increased presence in the Mediterranean to protect Israel during the ongoing war with Hamas.

This port visit comes at a time of heightened tensions in the eastern Mediterranean, where the US has increased its naval presence to ensure regional stability and to support Israel against possible threats. The USS Wasp, along with its accompanying ships, the USS Oak Hill and the USS New York, has been positioned in the region since June as part of these deterrence efforts.

While the visit underscores the strong defense ties between the US and Turkey, it has also sparked controversy. The USS Wasp's earlier docking in Cyprus and its mission to protect Israel have drawn criticism from several Turkish political groups. In İzmir, members of the Turkish Youth Union (TGB) protested the ship's arrival by placing a sack over the head of a US serviceman, recalling a 2003 incident involving Turkish soldiers in Iraq.

Another day, another moment of global instability and unrest!

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