The Transformation of Turkish Foreign Policy Towards the Middle East

Abstract

Turkey has traditionally looked at the Middle East with caution ever since it's declaration of secular republic and tilted towards the West in its foreign policy formulation. However, the onset of 21 st century brought Justice and Development Party (AKP) to rule the country straddling the two continents. The party, internally, has turned around the country putting it on the path of progress and development. On the international front, it has taken an active approach towards the Middle East, especially its neighboring countries in recent years. Ankara's approach towards Iran, Iraq and Syria – the three countries with which it shares land borders – as well as Israel has seen many ups and downs in the post 2000 period. Factors like Iraq War and the resultant autonomy of the Kurds; Israel's belligerent posture; the Arab Spring and more recently the emergence of the Islamic State have all played significant role in this transformation. The overall impact of this transformation and the future course of action, however, remain yet to be seen.