The two prominent Middle Eastern powers, Turkey and Iran, have recently shown a strong desire to warm their relationship after Turkey praised the combat skills of Hamas and Iranian-backed Mujahideen. Historically, there have been simmering tensions between these two countries due to diverging regional political objectives, yet in recent times, Turkey has actively sought reconciliation with Iran and has started to rely on Iran’s assistance in a variety of areas.
The current Turkish government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made its support for Hamas quite clear, as its foreign ministry praised the group’s “heroic” struggle against Israel’s occupation of Palestine. This stance was then furthered through Turkey’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmet Tuysuz’s comments praising the battlefield capabilities of the Mujahideen, which are loyal to the Iranian government.
These compliments come in stark contrast to the strained relations between the two countries in the past decade. During this time, Turkey and Iran were increasingly at odds over regional subjects, such as the Iranian nuclear program and the civil war in Syria. Ankara was vehemently opposed to Arms Treaty by Russia and Iran in an effort to give the pro-Syrian regime the upper hand. Furthermore, Erdogan accused Iran of allowing the Syrian government to violate the cease-fire agreements and of interfering in internal Turkish issues.
Despite this hostile past, Turkey has now sought to warm its diplomatic ties with Iran. In recent weeks, the two countries have held constructive diplomatic meetings and have agreed to deepen cooperation. Turkey has also indicated that it would welcome Iranian investment into the Turkish economy and crucial infrastructure projects for both countries. Both nations have kept the Iran nuclear deal alive and have engaged in talks about lifting economic sanctions on Iran, among other issues.
The desire to build a mutually beneficial relationship between Turkey and Iran represents a shift in foreign policy for both nations, as they attempt to solidify their influence in the Middle East. This has the potential to lead to economic and military benefits, as well as political stability in the region. Whether Turkey and Iran reach a strong détente or remain at odds in the future, remains to be seen.