https://arab.news/m54kd
For more than two decades, Turkiye has lived with wars on its doorstep — first Iraq, then Syria, and now Iran. None of these conflicts have remained within the countries’ borders, and all have affected Turkiye’s security, economy, and domestic politics.
Over time, Turkiye has adopted an increasingly proactive foreign policy in response to geopolitical transformations and the structural challenges posed by its neighborhood. With the country playing a greater role in regional issues, its population has also taken a growing interest in Ankara’s foreign policy decisions.
Most Turkish people oppose the country being dragged into any war. If anything, they prefer Turkiye to act as a mediator. According to a recent public survey that asked what Turkiye’s policy should be in the conflict between Iran and the US, most preferred neutrality or supported brokering peace. There is strong public opposition to US and Israeli military action, but that does not mean there is support for the Iranian regime.
Turkiye’s position is delicate here because it is the only NATO member that shares a long land border with Iran. That alone makes things more difficult for Ankara. On the one hand, it is part of the Western alliance, while on the other, it risks facing the consequences of whatever happens next door. Historically, Turkiye’s membership in NATO has shaped its policies not only with the West but also with its neighbors — a situation that calls for clear neutrality.
