SCFR Online – Opinion: The meeting of the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt in Istanbul has provided an opportunity for diplomatic coordination regarding West Asian crises, but its success will depend on the participation of key actors and the transformation of consultations into practical measures.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The presence of high-ranking delegations from the member states of the “Makkah Joint Defense Agreement” in Tehran, at a time when the region is embroiled in military tensions and the fragile process of Iran-US negotiations, is considered a turning point in the security equations of the Persian Gulf and West Asia.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Competition over energy, minerals, and supply chains has expanded geoeconomic instruments and highlighted the role of BRICS and alternative paths in the world economic order.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The results of the Israeli regime’s elections can affect the composition of this regime’s cabinet and the manner of implementing its aggressive plans, but internal political changes do not necessarily lead to a strategic transformation in its approach to Palestine, Iran, and the Axis of Resistance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The US military withdrawal from Iraq does not mean the end of the security relationship between Baghdad and Washington, but rather constitutes a test of the Iraqi government’s ability to manage internal threats and redefine foreign dependencies.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The proliferation of smart unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb shows that control of the sea is not possible solely with large warships, submarines, and carrier-based aircraft.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The withdrawal of American forces from Iraq has marked the end of Washington’s direct military presence in the country; however, America’s financial, political, and security levers can still affect and cause problems for the future of this country.
SCFR Online – Opinion: After months of war and economic pressure, the situation between Iran and the United States has been placed between two conflicting logics; Washington insists on intensifying pressure to gain concessions, and Tehran does not accept negotiations under pressure.
Strategic Council Online Interview: A senior Turkish affairs analyst stated: The signing of a military memorandum of understanding between Turkey and Syria on August 13, 2025, in Ankara marks a turning point in the defense relations of the two neighboring countries, which have grappled with years of political and military tensions. This agreement, signed after intensive negotiations between the two countries’ defense ministers, Yaşar Güler and Merif Abu Qasrah, provides a framework for educational and advisory cooperation and the exchange of military personnel. The primary objective of this memorandum is to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian army, rebuild its defense structures according to international standards, and reduce the threats posed by non-professional armed groups. This move, within the context of recent regional developments, particularly following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, signifies a shift in Turkey’s approach towards Syria and an effort to establish stability along their shared borders. This agreement not only helps redefine the defense relations between Damascus and Ankara but could also lead to a reduction in border tensions and counter common threats, including the activities of Kurdish groups such as the “People’s Defense Units” [YPG]. Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, in a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Esad Hasan eş-Şibani, criticized the interventions of the Zionist regime in the Suwayda conflicts and emphasized the necessity of establishing an inclusive government in Syria. These statements reflect Turkey’s concern over the role of external actors in regional instability. However, some analysts believe this memorandum might imply a tacit acceptance of Turkish influence within the military structures of Syria’s new government. At the same time, internal challenges, including ethnic and religious tensions, continue to pose obstacles to sustainable stability in the region.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The meeting of the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt in Istanbul has provided an opportunity for diplomatic coordination regarding West Asian crises, but its success will depend on the participation of key actors and the transformation of consultations into practical measures.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The presence of high-ranking delegations from the member states of the “Makkah Joint Defense Agreement” in Tehran, at a time when the region is embroiled in military tensions and the fragile process of Iran-US negotiations, is considered a turning point in the security equations of the Persian Gulf and West Asia.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Competition over energy, minerals, and supply chains has expanded geoeconomic instruments and highlighted the role of BRICS and alternative paths in the world economic order.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The results of the Israeli regime’s elections can affect the composition of this regime’s cabinet and the manner of implementing its aggressive plans, but internal political changes do not necessarily lead to a strategic transformation in its approach to Palestine, Iran, and the Axis of Resistance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The US military withdrawal from Iraq does not mean the end of the security relationship between Baghdad and Washington, but rather constitutes a test of the Iraqi government’s ability to manage internal threats and redefine foreign dependencies.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The proliferation of smart unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb shows that control of the sea is not possible solely with large warships, submarines, and carrier-based aircraft.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The withdrawal of American forces from Iraq has marked the end of Washington’s direct military presence in the country; however, America’s financial, political, and security levers can still affect and cause problems for the future of this country.
SCFR Online – Opinion: After months of war and economic pressure, the situation between Iran and the United States has been placed between two conflicting logics; Washington insists on intensifying pressure to gain concessions, and Tehran does not accept negotiations under pressure.
Strategic Council Online Interview: A senior Turkish affairs analyst stated: The signing of a military memorandum of understanding between Turkey and Syria on August 13, 2025, in Ankara marks a turning point in the defense relations of the two neighboring countries, which have grappled with years of political and military tensions. This agreement, signed after intensive negotiations between the two countries’ defense ministers, Yaşar Güler and Merif Abu Qasrah, provides a framework for educational and advisory cooperation and the exchange of military personnel. The primary objective of this memorandum is to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian army, rebuild its defense structures according to international standards, and reduce the threats posed by non-professional armed groups. This move, within the context of recent regional developments, particularly following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, signifies a shift in Turkey’s approach towards Syria and an effort to establish stability along their shared borders. This agreement not only helps redefine the defense relations between Damascus and Ankara but could also lead to a reduction in border tensions and counter common threats, including the activities of Kurdish groups such as the “People’s Defense Units” [YPG]. Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, in a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Esad Hasan eş-Şibani, criticized the interventions of the Zionist regime in the Suwayda conflicts and emphasized the necessity of establishing an inclusive government in Syria. These statements reflect Turkey’s concern over the role of external actors in regional instability. However, some analysts believe this memorandum might imply a tacit acceptance of Turkish influence within the military structures of Syria’s new government. At the same time, internal challenges, including ethnic and religious tensions, continue to pose obstacles to sustainable stability in the region.
Strategic Council Online Interview: A senior Turkish affairs analyst stated: The signing of a military memorandum of understanding between Turkey and Syria on August 13, 2025, in Ankara marks a turning point in the defense relations of the two neighboring countries, which have grappled with years of political and military tensions. This agreement, signed after intensive negotiations between the two countries’ defense ministers, Yaşar Güler and Merif Abu Qasrah, provides a framework for educational and advisory cooperation and the exchange of military personnel. The primary objective of this memorandum is to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian army, rebuild its defense structures according to international standards, and reduce the threats posed by non-professional armed groups. This move, within the context of recent regional developments, particularly following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, signifies a shift in Turkey’s approach towards Syria and an effort to establish stability along their shared borders. This agreement not only helps redefine the defense relations between Damascus and Ankara but could also lead to a reduction in border tensions and counter common threats, including the activities of Kurdish groups such as the “People’s Defense Units” [YPG]. Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, in a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Esad Hasan eş-Şibani, criticized the interventions of the Zionist regime in the Suwayda conflicts and emphasized the necessity of establishing an inclusive government in Syria. These statements reflect Turkey’s concern over the role of external actors in regional instability. However, some analysts believe this memorandum might imply a tacit acceptance of Turkish influence within the military structures of Syria’s new government. At the same time, internal challenges, including ethnic and religious tensions, continue to pose obstacles to sustainable stability in the region.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The meeting of the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt in Istanbul has provided an opportunity for diplomatic coordination regarding West Asian crises, but its success will depend on the participation of key actors and the transformation of consultations into practical measures.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The presence of high-ranking delegations from the member states of the “Makkah Joint Defense Agreement” in Tehran, at a time when the region is embroiled in military tensions and the fragile process of Iran-US negotiations, is considered a turning point in the security equations of the Persian Gulf and West Asia.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Competition over energy, minerals, and supply chains has expanded geoeconomic instruments and highlighted the role of BRICS and alternative paths in the world economic order.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The results of the Israeli regime’s elections can affect the composition of this regime’s cabinet and the manner of implementing its aggressive plans, but internal political changes do not necessarily lead to a strategic transformation in its approach to Palestine, Iran, and the Axis of Resistance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The US military withdrawal from Iraq does not mean the end of the security relationship between Baghdad and Washington, but rather constitutes a test of the Iraqi government’s ability to manage internal threats and redefine foreign dependencies.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The proliferation of smart unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb shows that control of the sea is not possible solely with large warships, submarines, and carrier-based aircraft.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The withdrawal of American forces from Iraq has marked the end of Washington’s direct military presence in the country; however, America’s financial, political, and security levers can still affect and cause problems for the future of this country.
SCFR Online – Opinion: After months of war and economic pressure, the situation between Iran and the United States has been placed between two conflicting logics; Washington insists on intensifying pressure to gain concessions, and Tehran does not accept negotiations under pressure.
Strategic Council Online Interview: A senior Turkish affairs analyst stated: The signing of a military memorandum of understanding between Turkey and Syria on August 13, 2025, in Ankara marks a turning point in the defense relations of the two neighboring countries, which have grappled with years of political and military tensions. This agreement, signed after intensive negotiations between the two countries’ defense ministers, Yaşar Güler and Merif Abu Qasrah, provides a framework for educational and advisory cooperation and the exchange of military personnel. The primary objective of this memorandum is to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian army, rebuild its defense structures according to international standards, and reduce the threats posed by non-professional armed groups. This move, within the context of recent regional developments, particularly following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, signifies a shift in Turkey’s approach towards Syria and an effort to establish stability along their shared borders. This agreement not only helps redefine the defense relations between Damascus and Ankara but could also lead to a reduction in border tensions and counter common threats, including the activities of Kurdish groups such as the “People’s Defense Units” [YPG]. Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, in a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Esad Hasan eş-Şibani, criticized the interventions of the Zionist regime in the Suwayda conflicts and emphasized the necessity of establishing an inclusive government in Syria. These statements reflect Turkey’s concern over the role of external actors in regional instability. However, some analysts believe this memorandum might imply a tacit acceptance of Turkish influence within the military structures of Syria’s new government. At the same time, internal challenges, including ethnic and religious tensions, continue to pose obstacles to sustainable stability in the region.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The meeting of the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt in Istanbul has provided an opportunity for diplomatic coordination regarding West Asian crises, but its success will depend on the participation of key actors and the transformation of consultations into practical measures.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The presence of high-ranking delegations from the member states of the “Makkah Joint Defense Agreement” in Tehran, at a time when the region is embroiled in military tensions and the fragile process of Iran-US negotiations, is considered a turning point in the security equations of the Persian Gulf and West Asia.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Competition over energy, minerals, and supply chains has expanded geoeconomic instruments and highlighted the role of BRICS and alternative paths in the world economic order.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The results of the Israeli regime’s elections can affect the composition of this regime’s cabinet and the manner of implementing its aggressive plans, but internal political changes do not necessarily lead to a strategic transformation in its approach to Palestine, Iran, and the Axis of Resistance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The US military withdrawal from Iraq does not mean the end of the security relationship between Baghdad and Washington, but rather constitutes a test of the Iraqi government’s ability to manage internal threats and redefine foreign dependencies.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The proliferation of smart unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb shows that control of the sea is not possible solely with large warships, submarines, and carrier-based aircraft.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The withdrawal of American forces from Iraq has marked the end of Washington’s direct military presence in the country; however, America’s financial, political, and security levers can still affect and cause problems for the future of this country.
SCFR Online – Opinion: After months of war and economic pressure, the situation between Iran and the United States has been placed between two conflicting logics; Washington insists on intensifying pressure to gain concessions, and Tehran does not accept negotiations under pressure.
Strategic Council Online Interview: A senior Turkish affairs analyst stated: The signing of a military memorandum of understanding between Turkey and Syria on August 13, 2025, in Ankara marks a turning point in the defense relations of the two neighboring countries, which have grappled with years of political and military tensions. This agreement, signed after intensive negotiations between the two countries’ defense ministers, Yaşar Güler and Merif Abu Qasrah, provides a framework for educational and advisory cooperation and the exchange of military personnel. The primary objective of this memorandum is to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian army, rebuild its defense structures according to international standards, and reduce the threats posed by non-professional armed groups. This move, within the context of recent regional developments, particularly following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, signifies a shift in Turkey’s approach towards Syria and an effort to establish stability along their shared borders. This agreement not only helps redefine the defense relations between Damascus and Ankara but could also lead to a reduction in border tensions and counter common threats, including the activities of Kurdish groups such as the “People’s Defense Units” [YPG]. Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, in a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Esad Hasan eş-Şibani, criticized the interventions of the Zionist regime in the Suwayda conflicts and emphasized the necessity of establishing an inclusive government in Syria. These statements reflect Turkey’s concern over the role of external actors in regional instability. However, some analysts believe this memorandum might imply a tacit acceptance of Turkish influence within the military structures of Syria’s new government. At the same time, internal challenges, including ethnic and religious tensions, continue to pose obstacles to sustainable stability in the region.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The meeting of the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt in Istanbul has provided an opportunity for diplomatic coordination regarding West Asian crises, but its success will depend on the participation of key actors and the transformation of consultations into practical measures.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The presence of high-ranking delegations from the member states of the “Makkah Joint Defense Agreement” in Tehran, at a time when the region is embroiled in military tensions and the fragile process of Iran-US negotiations, is considered a turning point in the security equations of the Persian Gulf and West Asia.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Competition over energy, minerals, and supply chains has expanded geoeconomic instruments and highlighted the role of BRICS and alternative paths in the world economic order.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The results of the Israeli regime’s elections can affect the composition of this regime’s cabinet and the manner of implementing its aggressive plans, but internal political changes do not necessarily lead to a strategic transformation in its approach to Palestine, Iran, and the Axis of Resistance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The US military withdrawal from Iraq does not mean the end of the security relationship between Baghdad and Washington, but rather constitutes a test of the Iraqi government’s ability to manage internal threats and redefine foreign dependencies.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The proliferation of smart unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb shows that control of the sea is not possible solely with large warships, submarines, and carrier-based aircraft.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The withdrawal of American forces from Iraq has marked the end of Washington’s direct military presence in the country; however, America’s financial, political, and security levers can still affect and cause problems for the future of this country.
SCFR Online – Opinion: After months of war and economic pressure, the situation between Iran and the United States has been placed between two conflicting logics; Washington insists on intensifying pressure to gain concessions, and Tehran does not accept negotiations under pressure.
Strategic Council Online Interview: A senior Turkish affairs analyst stated: The signing of a military memorandum of understanding between Turkey and Syria on August 13, 2025, in Ankara marks a turning point in the defense relations of the two neighboring countries, which have grappled with years of political and military tensions. This agreement, signed after intensive negotiations between the two countries’ defense ministers, Yaşar Güler and Merif Abu Qasrah, provides a framework for educational and advisory cooperation and the exchange of military personnel. The primary objective of this memorandum is to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian army, rebuild its defense structures according to international standards, and reduce the threats posed by non-professional armed groups. This move, within the context of recent regional developments, particularly following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, signifies a shift in Turkey’s approach towards Syria and an effort to establish stability along their shared borders. This agreement not only helps redefine the defense relations between Damascus and Ankara but could also lead to a reduction in border tensions and counter common threats, including the activities of Kurdish groups such as the “People’s Defense Units” [YPG]. Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, in a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Esad Hasan eş-Şibani, criticized the interventions of the Zionist regime in the Suwayda conflicts and emphasized the necessity of establishing an inclusive government in Syria. These statements reflect Turkey’s concern over the role of external actors in regional instability. However, some analysts believe this memorandum might imply a tacit acceptance of Turkish influence within the military structures of Syria’s new government. At the same time, internal challenges, including ethnic and religious tensions, continue to pose obstacles to sustainable stability in the region.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The meeting of the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt in Istanbul has provided an opportunity for diplomatic coordination regarding West Asian crises, but its success will depend on the participation of key actors and the transformation of consultations into practical measures.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The presence of high-ranking delegations from the member states of the “Makkah Joint Defense Agreement” in Tehran, at a time when the region is embroiled in military tensions and the fragile process of Iran-US negotiations, is considered a turning point in the security equations of the Persian Gulf and West Asia.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Competition over energy, minerals, and supply chains has expanded geoeconomic instruments and highlighted the role of BRICS and alternative paths in the world economic order.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The results of the Israeli regime’s elections can affect the composition of this regime’s cabinet and the manner of implementing its aggressive plans, but internal political changes do not necessarily lead to a strategic transformation in its approach to Palestine, Iran, and the Axis of Resistance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The US military withdrawal from Iraq does not mean the end of the security relationship between Baghdad and Washington, but rather constitutes a test of the Iraqi government’s ability to manage internal threats and redefine foreign dependencies.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The proliferation of smart unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb shows that control of the sea is not possible solely with large warships, submarines, and carrier-based aircraft.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The withdrawal of American forces from Iraq has marked the end of Washington’s direct military presence in the country; however, America’s financial, political, and security levers can still affect and cause problems for the future of this country.
SCFR Online – Opinion: After months of war and economic pressure, the situation between Iran and the United States has been placed between two conflicting logics; Washington insists on intensifying pressure to gain concessions, and Tehran does not accept negotiations under pressure.
Strategic Council Online Interview: A senior Turkish affairs analyst stated: The signing of a military memorandum of understanding between Turkey and Syria on August 13, 2025, in Ankara marks a turning point in the defense relations of the two neighboring countries, which have grappled with years of political and military tensions. This agreement, signed after intensive negotiations between the two countries’ defense ministers, Yaşar Güler and Merif Abu Qasrah, provides a framework for educational and advisory cooperation and the exchange of military personnel. The primary objective of this memorandum is to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian army, rebuild its defense structures according to international standards, and reduce the threats posed by non-professional armed groups. This move, within the context of recent regional developments, particularly following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, signifies a shift in Turkey’s approach towards Syria and an effort to establish stability along their shared borders. This agreement not only helps redefine the defense relations between Damascus and Ankara but could also lead to a reduction in border tensions and counter common threats, including the activities of Kurdish groups such as the “People’s Defense Units” [YPG]. Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, in a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, Esad Hasan eş-Şibani, criticized the interventions of the Zionist regime in the Suwayda conflicts and emphasized the necessity of establishing an inclusive government in Syria. These statements reflect Turkey’s concern over the role of external actors in regional instability. However, some analysts believe this memorandum might imply a tacit acceptance of Turkish influence within the military structures of Syria’s new government. At the same time, internal challenges, including ethnic and religious tensions, continue to pose obstacles to sustainable stability in the region.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The meeting of the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt in Istanbul has provided an opportunity for diplomatic coordination regarding West Asian crises, but its success will depend on the participation of key actors and the transformation of consultations into practical measures.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The presence of high-ranking delegations from the member states of the “Makkah Joint Defense Agreement” in Tehran, at a time when the region is embroiled in military tensions and the fragile process of Iran-US negotiations, is considered a turning point in the security equations of the Persian Gulf and West Asia.
SCFR Online – Opinion: Competition over energy, minerals, and supply chains has expanded geoeconomic instruments and highlighted the role of BRICS and alternative paths in the world economic order.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The results of the Israeli regime’s elections can affect the composition of this regime’s cabinet and the manner of implementing its aggressive plans, but internal political changes do not necessarily lead to a strategic transformation in its approach to Palestine, Iran, and the Axis of Resistance.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The US military withdrawal from Iraq does not mean the end of the security relationship between Baghdad and Washington, but rather constitutes a test of the Iraqi government’s ability to manage internal threats and redefine foreign dependencies.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The proliferation of smart unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb shows that control of the sea is not possible solely with large warships, submarines, and carrier-based aircraft.
SCFR Online – Opinion: The withdrawal of American forces from Iraq has marked the end of Washington’s direct military presence in the country; however, America’s financial, political, and security levers can still affect and cause problems for the future of this country.
SCFR Online – Opinion: After months of war and economic pressure, the situation between Iran and the United States has been placed between two conflicting logics; Washington insists on intensifying pressure to gain concessions, and Tehran does not accept negotiations under pressure.