US/Turkish Relationships After Operation Iraqi Freedom
Abstract
On March 1, 2003 the Turkish Parliament voted not to allow US Forces to use Turkish bases during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. This vote stunned the United States. The United States and Turkey have been dose partners since the beginning of the Cold War and the common perception was that at the last minute Turkey would allow the US to use its land and sea ports. Although both sides are moving forward after the war lingering questions remain concerning the damage to the relationship between the two countries. Will the US support Turkey in their quest for European Union membership and in the world markets and banking systems? Will Turkey continue to allow use of Incirlik Air Base? Is the geographic location of Turkey still of strategic importance or has technology lessened this factor in the international community? The United States must forget the past and move forward with the Turkish government. With the fall of the Iron Curtain and now the change in leadership of Iraq Turkey is actually more important than ever to US interests in Europe and the Middle East; however a change in policy toward Turkey should be considered. This paper will explore the impact of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on US I Turkish relations and provide possible alternatives and recommendations to ensure future success.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 07, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA423623
Entities
People
- Harvey L. Hammond Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army War College