New NATO leader must collaborate with Turkey on Middle East issues

The upcoming appointment of a new NATO secretary-general has sparked significant interest, especially with Turkiye throwing its support behind Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte for the position. This move comes after Rutte’s recent visit to Turkiye, where he met with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a key figure within the alliance known for his tough stance.

The next NATO chief will face daunting challenges, particularly in navigating the complex dynamics surrounding two major conflicts in Turkiye’s immediate neighborhood – the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Israel’s war on Gaza. Turkiye’s position on these conflicts has often diverged from that of its NATO allies, highlighting the intricate relationship between the country and the alliance.

Despite occasional clashes with its allies, Turkiye remains a crucial member of NATO, boasting the second-largest military in the alliance after the US. The country’s strategic significance extends beyond its military capabilities, with its proximity to key players in the region such as Russia, Syria, Iraq, and Iran playing a vital role in regional security and energy transit.

While Turkiye historically aligned its foreign and security policies with NATO, recent years have seen a more critical stance from Ankara towards the alliance, particularly in response to certain crises. The divergence within NATO allies on issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has provided a platform for Turkiye to exert pressure on Western states on international issues.

The Red Sea security crisis has also raised concerns among NATO members, with varying responses to the Houthi attacks in the region. Turkiye has adopted an antimilitaristic approach and refrained from joining the US-led maritime coalition in the Red Sea, further highlighting the complexities of the country’s position within the alliance.

Turkiye’s active role in NATO’s outreach efforts in the Middle East, Eastern Mediterranean, and Gulf region underscores its commitment to regional security and cooperation. Initiatives like the Mediterranean Dialogue and Istanbul Cooperation Initiative aim to enhance military cooperation and promote a sense of security in the region.

Despite doubts about NATO’s true ambitions in the Middle East, the alliance’s enduring security interests in the region emphasize Turkiye’s importance as a pivotal partner. The next secretary-general will need to address key conflicts in the region, including Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine, while navigating the complexities of Turkiye’s relationship with NATO.

In conclusion, the appointment of a new NATO chief presents an opportunity to strengthen relations between Turkiye and the alliance, as they work towards managing their differences and identifying common interests in addressing the challenges in the Middle East. The upcoming months will be crucial in shaping the future of NATO’s engagement in the region, with Turkiye playing a key role in shaping the alliance’s approach to regional security issues.