Political Kidnappings in Turkey, 1971-1972
Abstract
The author analyzes 3 political kidnapping incidents involving foreign hostages that occurred in Turkey in 1971-72. The kidnappers were local terrorists groups drawn from a leftist student movement opposed to U.S. influence in Turkey. In the first incident, 4 American airmen were taken hostage; the victim in the second incident was the Israeli Consul-General; and those in the third incident were 3 civilian NATO technicians. A detailed narrative is given of events surrounding each kidnapping, together with analysis of key factors for policy assessment and observations on lessons to be drawn. Policy positions taken by the hostages' governments were less important than local political factors in determining outcomes of kidnapping incidents and prospects for further incidents. However, understanding the local political situation and a flexible tactical approach may help enhance hostage survival.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADB021900
Entities
People
- Margaret Krahenbuhl
Organizations
- RAND Corporation