The US troops stationed in Turkey seem to be at growing risk, not just from the possibility of the Syrian Civil War spreading across the border, but of ISIS bringing the fight directly to them.
An attempted kidnapping of a Turkish commander earlier this week underscores ISIS ability to extend its influence across the border, with a promise of $500,000 convincing a Turkish gang to try to capture the commander, who was shot but escaped.
ISIS is flush with cash, and groups like this are apparently available for rent, which means that the capture of a US soldier may just be a phone call away for ISIS.
Officials are refusing to say if they’re taking additional precautions, but it seems likely that US troops, when they are off base, could become an easy, and potentially very politically valuable, target for ISIS, and such an attempt is likely only a matter of time.
That's what "spreading democracy" around the world has gotten us, especially to those countries who don't want it. It is foreseeable that in my generation's lifetime it will be very dangerous for Americans to travel anywhere in the world for fear of being snatched off the streets…or just gunned down…for the sins of our fathers (and the idiots who put this whole thing in motion.) The elite may be able to purchase rent-a-bodyguards when they travel – I can't – most people can't.
And if you believe that this danger only exists in certain parts of the world…don't hold your breath.