Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı Examines Ongoing Turkiye-Israel Relations Amid Rising Regional Tensions
On October 9, 2024, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı, co-founder of the Ankara Global Advisory Group, shared his insights on Ekol TV’s Gün Ortası program hosted by Okan Ateş to discuss the current state of Turkiye-Israel relations. In his remarks, Bağcı provided nuanced insights into how Turkiye’s stance and regional developments shape this complex and evolving relationship.
Key Insights from Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı:
Arab States’ Strategic Silence and its Impact on Turkiye-Israel Dynamics: Prof. Bağcı highlighted that Arab countries’ strategic silence on Turkiye’s increasing refugee challenges serves as a diplomatic maneuver, allowing these states to avoid direct involvement while positioning tensions as bilateral issues between Turkiye, Israel, and Iran. This calculated neutrality, according to Prof. Bağcı, allows Arab countries to maintain a hands-off approach, effectively leaving Turkiye to handle these pressures independently. This silence also underscores a regional strategy that frames Turkiye’s actions without encouraging wider Arab engagement.
Turkiye’s Cautious Approach to Avoiding Direct Conflict with Israel: Addressing President Erdoğan’s recent labeling of Israel as a “Zionist terrorist organization,” Prof. Bağcı noted that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s deliberate avoidance of a direct response reflects Israel’s prioritization of its focus on Iran. Bağcı stressed that Turkiye’s current position—avoiding direct confrontation with Israel—aligns well with its strategic interests, particularly given Turkiye’s NATO membership and close relations with the United States. Prof. Bağcı also emphasized that Turkiye remains prepared to act only in case of direct aggression, highlighting a balanced approach that prioritizes stability.
Conclusion: Turkiye Must Maintain Strategic Balance Amid Regional Complexities
Prof. Bağcı concluded by emphasizing the careful balance Turkiye must maintain amid regional complexities. Bağcı highlighted that while Turkiye is impacted by internal and external pressures—from an influx of refugees to strained historical relations with Israel and certain Arab states—its leaders are navigating this environment with measured caution. Bağcı underscored that Turkey's choices, particularly in regard to avoiding direct conflict with Israel, reflect a strategy aimed at preserving stability while maintaining security.
Ankara Global Advisory Group is proud to continue offering thought leadership on key international issues, ensuring that global decision-makers are equipped with the knowledge they need to navigate complex security dynamics.
For a more detailed analysis from Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı and the latest developments in international relations, continue following updates from Ankara Global Advisory Group.