Author: Ihsan Aktas
As is widely recognized, the Syrian civil war originated from the aspirations of the Syrian people for an improved quality of life, a stronger economy and the opportunity to live freely within a democratic framework. Initially, the United States aimed to facilitate a regime change in Syria and establish a democratic order. The “Friends of Syria” platform, comprising approximately 60 members, included Türkiye as an active participant. In the course of events, the U.S. abandoned the objective of regime change in Syria, influenced by factors such as the assassination of the U.S. ambassador in Libya and the steadfast opposition from…
In 2010, Türkiye encountered an unexpected situation. Known for its substantial steps toward democratization, the country successfully curtailed military tutelage and focused on democratizing the republic. Türkiye, in particular, expanded development and prosperity to all provinces, regions and grassroots. In essence, it aimed to achieve the growth, investment and progress level in two decades that Europe accomplished over a century. First and foremost, the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) prioritized addressing the urgent needs of society, such as improving transportation and education infrastructure and expanding access to health care services. It swiftly worked to close the gaps in…
Türkiye holds a highly strategic geopolitical position, particularly as global powers grapple with the looming threat of World War III. Situated at the crossroads of dramatic shifts in the east, west, south and north, Türkiye is deeply exposed to regional risks. However, this pivotal location also affords the nation considerable political leverage and influence. In this context, disputes occasionally emerge with southern Cyprus and Greece over natural gas reserves in the Eastern Mediterranean. Türkiye’s role as a stabilizing force in Libya often brings it into conflict with various global powers. Meanwhile, Türkiye shares borders with two destabilized states: Iraq, which…
The recent elections in the United States captured the attention of the entire world. Despite some futurist writers and political scientists discussing a potential decline in U.S. global influence, all eyes turned to television screens on election night, with debates centering on whether the Republicans or Democrats would prevail and whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris would emerge victorious. This reaction underscores that the U.S. remains the dominant power on the world stage. In elections, a key trait of successful campaigns is the ability to inspire hope in everyone with expectations. I believe Trump has managed this exceptionally well, giving…
Turkish politics is highly dynamic, vibrant and receptive to change, with paradigm shifts and significant political developments often occurring almost overnight. Just last week, Devlet Bahçeli, leader of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), made an unexpectedly bold move on Türkiye’s Kurdish issue. He stated that, for terrorism to end, the PKK terrorist organization’s imprisoned leader, Abdullah Öcalan, should be allowed to speak in parliament and formally declare the dissolution of the PKK. In Türkiye, liberal perspectives on the Kurdish issue vary from support for certain democratic rights to advocating for a degree of autonomy. Conversely, the ruling Justice and Development…