Turkey's Relations with Iran and the United States: A Shift in Alignment
Abstract
This thesis examines the past and present condition of Turkey's relations with an ally, the United States, and an old neighbor, Iran, and identifies the variables that have divided or united these three important players of the Middle East since 1979. The goal of this thesis is to answer the following questions: Is Turkish foreign policy changing direction? Is there really a common ground for Turkey and Iran to cooperate for the stability of the region? Is cooperation possible for these two old rival states each of whom has been seeking to be the dominant power of this region since the very beginning of their relations? long history? If yes, is it worthwhile for Turkey to improve her relations with Iran even in the face of U.S. opposition? In this context, although there seems a relative recovery in Turkish-Iranian relations and a decline in Turkey's relations with the United States due to diverging interests in the Middle East, Turkey and the United States should realize their importance for each other. They should establish a stronger structure to synchronize relations, so they do not end up in a "lose-lose" position by ignoring each other's priorities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA496710
Entities
People
- Abdullah Karakoc
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School