By , Hibaterahmen Boussenna Department of International Relations and Strategic 24-07-2024

Introduction:

Turkey’s growing involvement in the Middle East over the past two decades marks a significant shift in its foreign policy. This article examines why Turkey has intensified its presence in the region and how it has executed this strategy.

– What historical contexts, strategic motivations, and key initiatives have driven Turkey’s increased regional engagement in the Middle East?

How have these factors collectively shaped its foreign policy and influence in the region?

Historical contex and Background:

Early Relations and Isolation:

Historically, Turkey’s relationship with the Middle East was characterized by cautious engagement and occasional isolation. During the Cold War, Turkey aligned with Western powers, focusing on its NATO commitments and European integration. This alignment led to limited engagement with Middle Eastern neighbors.

For instance, Turkey had strained relations with Syria due to disputes over the Hatay Province and water resources from the Euphrates River. Additionally, Turkey’s secular government often clashed ideologically with the region’s predominantly Islamic states.

Shift in the Late 20th Century:

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, under Turgut Özal’s leadership, Turkey began to adopt a more proactive approach toward the Middle East, seeking economic and political ties.

Özal promoted regional economic integration and attempted to mediate conflicts, such as the Iran-Iraq War, saying  “We need to integrate more with our neighbors economically and politically to secure our regional interests”.

However, his efforts were constrained by the lack of domestic support and the overarching influence of Western-oriented foreign policy priorities.

Why Turkey Engaged More Actively

Strategic Depth Doctrine:

The ‘strategic depth’ doctrine, articulated by Ahmet Davutoglu, emphasized Turkey’s historical and geographical ties to the Middle East. This doctrine advocated for a multidimensional foreign policy where Turkey would leverage its cultural and historical connections to play a more influential role in regional affairs.

For example, Davutoglu emphasized the importance of reconnecting with former Ottoman territories to enhance Turkey’s strategic depth, power, and influence. He argued, “Turkey’s historical and geographical connections with the Middle East provide it with a unique position to influence regional dynamics”.

Zero Problems with Neighbors Policy:

The AKP’s* ‘zero problems with neighbors’ policy aimed to resolve conflicts and build strong diplomatic and economic relationships with all neighboring countries.

 This policy sought to create a stable and peaceful regional environment conducive to economic growth and political stability.

*The AKP (Justice and Development Party) is a conservative political party in Turkey, founded in 2001, which has been a dominant force in Turkish politics, known for its blend of pro-Islamic views, economic liberalization, and assertive foreign policy.

 An example is Turkey’s rapprochement with Syria in the early 2000s, where both countries signed numerous bilateral agreements, including the establishment of a free trade area and cooperation on water resources.

Regional Power Vacuum:

The early 2000s saw significant geopolitical shifts, including the US invasion of Iraq and the Arab Spring.

These events created power vacuums and new security challenges, presenting Turkey with opportunities to assert its influence and stabilize the region in line with its interests.

 For instance, the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime in Iraq opened up space for Turkey to expand its economic and political influence in northern Iraq, particularly among the Kurdish Regional Government.

Economic Interests:

Turkey’s booming economy in the 2000s drove its need for new markets and energy resources. The Middle East, with its vast energy reserves and growing markets, became a focal point for Turkish trade and investment. Turkish construction companies, for example, secured lucrative contracts in Gulf states, and Turkey increased its energy imports from countries like Iraq and Iran.

How Turkey Engaged in the Middle East:

Military Engagements:

Turkey’s military involvement increased significantly, particularly in response to the Syrian Civil War.

Turkey’s Defense Minister stated, “Our goal is to expand and strengthen our military bases to project power and secure our interests in the Middle East”.

The state established military bases, conducted cross-border operations against ISIS, and supported allied factions within Syria.

Notably, Turkey launched Operation Euphrates Shield in 2016 and Operation Olive Branch in 2018 to combat ISIS and Kurdish militias in northern Syria.

Turkey plans to enhance its military presence in strategic areas of the Middle East, including maintaining and expanding its military bases in Qatar and Somalia, and increasing its naval capabilities in the Eastern Mediterranean. These moves are aimed at projecting power and securing Turkey’s strategic interests in the region.

Economic Partnerships and Expansion:

Turkey developed robust economic ties with Middle Eastern countries, focusing on trade, investment, and energy cooperation.

Turkey also aims to further expand its economic footprint by investing in reconstruction efforts in post-conflict countries like Iraq and Libya.

 Most Turkish companies expanded their presence across the region, contributing to infrastructure projects such as airports and highways in these countries.

The increase in bilateral trade with countries like Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states reflects Turkey’s economic diplomacy.

Ankara has also been pursuing energy projects, such as exploring hydrocarbon resources in the Eastern Mediterranean, to reduce its energy dependency and enhance economic growth.

Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy:

Turkey utilized cultural diplomacy and soft power to strengthen its influence.

Initiatives included educational exchanges, media outreach through Turkish television series, humanitarian aid, and development assistance.

 Turkish TV dramas like “Diriliş: Ertuğrul” became popular in the Middle East, promoting a positive image of Turkey and its cultural heritage.

Erkan Saka explains, “Turkish TV dramas and humanitarian aid have been effective tools in promoting Turkey’s cultural and diplomatic presence in the Middle East”.

Outcomes and Implications:

Enhanced Regional Influence:

Turkey’s proactive foreign policy has elevated its status as a key regional player. It has gained strategic footholds, expanded its diplomatic reach, and built significant economic partnerships.

For instance, Turkey’s influence in Somalia, where it has established a military base and invested in infrastructure projects, underscores its growing regional clout.

Complex Regional Dynamics:

Turkey’s increased involvement has also led to complex regional dynamics. Its actions have sometimes strained relations with traditional allies, such as the US and EU, and caused friction with neighboring countries like Syria and Egypt.

For example, Turkey’s support for the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt led to a diplomatic rift with the Egyptian government after the 2013 military coup.

Balancing Act:

Turkey continues to navigate a delicate balancing act, managing its relations with diverse regional actors, including Iran and Gulf states, while pursuing its strategic interests and addressing security concerns.

Conclusion:

In summary, Turkey’s increased involvement in the Middle East highlights its strategic adaptation to regional and global shifts.By leveraging historical connections and employing a mix of diplomacy, military assertiveness, and economic initiatives, Turkey has effectively positioned itself as a key regional player.

This engagement is driven by both structural factors and Turkey’s ambition to navigate emerging power dynamics, demonstrating a sophisticated blend of historical legacy and modern strategy in shaping its regional influence.