Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
Esma Torani
The Middle East, a region steeped in history and religion, remains a focal point of global conflict and tension. Often described as the “womb of the universe,” Jerusalem and its surrounding lands are sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Yet, despite—or perhaps because of—this shared spiritual heritage, the Middle East has been a battleground for centuries, exacerbated by the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire and subsequent colonization by Western powers. The result is a region riddled with instability, war, and political chaos.
Historical Context and Modern Challenges
The fall of the Ottoman Empire left a power vacuum that Western colonial powers were quick to fill, leading to a century of conflict. The discovery of oil turned out to be more of a curse than a blessing for many Middle Eastern countries, fueling wars, corruption, and external interventions rather than prosperity. Iraq, for instance, has been plagued by political instability for decades. Iran, under the strain of U.S. sanctions, pursues an aggressive foreign policy, while Saudi Arabia, despite its wealth, remains heavily reliant on external powers and struggles with democratic reforms. The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) assertive foreign policy further threatens regional stability.
Erdoğan’s Diplomatic Maneuvers
During his tenure as the president of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan demonstrated his ability to influence regional dynamics. When former U.S. President Donald Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, Erdoğan countered by rallying overwhelming support at the U.N. General Assembly, leading to a resolution declaring the move “null and void.” This diplomatic victory isolated Israel and the U.S. on the Jerusalem issue and showcased Turkey’s potential as a stabilizing force in the region.
A New Regional Order
The post-World War II era saw the unraveling of colonial empires, and today, a similar shift is occurring. The rise of China and the decline of a unipolar world order led by the U.S. offer Middle Eastern countries a unique opportunity. By working together, these nations can establish enduring political stability and resist external interference.
One concrete step toward achieving peace could be the formation of a regional nonaggression pact among key players like Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt, Iraq, and Iran. Such an alliance would not only foster economic and cultural development but also deter foreign interventions that have historically plunged the region into conflict.
Turkey’s Pivotal Role
With its strong state tradition, Turkey is well-positioned to lead the charge for peace in the Middle East. Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and even Syria have crucial roles to play in shaping the region’s future. Great powers must recognize that stabilizing countries like Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen will benefit the entire region.
As global dynamics shift, Middle Eastern nations must align their national interests with those of their neighbors. The OIC could be the catalyst for a new era of cooperation, promoting peace and stability through a strong regional pact.
Moving Forward
In this critical moment, the onus is on Middle Eastern countries to take control of their destiny. By prioritizing regional cooperation and resisting the allure of external influences, they can forge a path to lasting peace. Turkey, with its diplomatic acumen and strong state tradition, should lead this effort, ensuring that the Middle East becomes a beacon of stability in an increasingly multipolar world.
