Turkey’s ruling AKP party has maintained a hostile stance toward Israel for years, primarily due to its support for Palestinians and its increasing sympathy for Hamas. Ankara’s backing of Hamas is rooted in shared ideologies, notably the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood. However, Turkey’s perspective on Israel is evolving; it now views Israel not just through the Palestinian lens but as a potential regional competitor, particularly following Israeli airstrikes in Syria that Ankara perceives as threats to its national security. This shift has prompted concerns in Israel, with analysts likening Turkey to an emerging threat similar to Iran, complicating the strategic dynamics for U.S. policymakers who regard both nations as key allies. Historically, relations between Turkey and Israel have deteriorated since the 2009 Mavi Marmara incident, with recent events further straining their ties.
Why It Matters
The changing relationship between Turkey and Israel is significant as it reflects broader geopolitical shifts in the Middle East. Historically, Turkey and Israel were allies from the 1950s to the late 1990s, but the rise of the AKP and subsequent conflicts have led to a decline in relations. The evolving Turkish foreign policy, including its alliances with groups like Hamas, has implications for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy, which relies on maintaining strong ties with both nations. The increasing perception of Israel as a rival by Turkey underscores the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics, especially amid Turkey’s recent attempts to reconcile with other regional powers like Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
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