Amid rising tensions between the Turkish government and the rest of the world, Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has come out in support of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, claiming that Turkey is “becoming the ‘Squad’ of NATO” after Erdogan accused Israel of committing war crimes.
Graham made the comment in a tweet that has since gone viral, in which he praised Erdogan for his strong leadership and stated that he believes Erdogan is likely to become the “most consequential” leader in the region. Graham also asserted that Turkey should have an “influential voice” in NATO, particularly in policy decisions related to the Middle East.
The statement comes amidst rising tensions between Turkey and Israel, with Erdogan accusing the latter of conducting “inhumane operations of oppression” in occupied Palestine. Erdogan also characterized Israel as a “war criminal” and said that he was willing to become the “voice of the oppressed” in the region.
However, Graham’s tweet was met with some criticism, with some arguing that Turkey has become increasingly authoritarian in its foreign policy. Others worry that Erdogan’s rhetoric could lead to further tensions with Israel and create instability in the region.
Ultimately, the issue of Israel-Turkey relations is unlikely to be settled anytime soon. With leaders on both sides exchanging barbs and accusations, it appears that the situation is becoming increasingly tense.
However, as Senator Graham has asserted, it is important for Turkey to have an influential voice in NATO and for the leadership in Ankara to be taken seriously. By engaging in diplomatic dialogue and maintaining respectful dialogue, both sides can work to resolve the current issues.