Neutrality—for now: Will Turkey enter war around Iran?

Amid rising tensions around Iran, Turkey continues to insist that it will not allow its territory to be used as a military platform against Iran. However, according to Turkologist Mher Abrahamyan, this stance could change depending on how developments unfold. In an interview with Alpha News, Abrahamyan noted that at present Ankara is trying to maintain a balanced stance and avoid direct involvement in open conflict.

“Turkey at this stage maintains a position of neutrality, which allows it to simultaneously speak to both the West and Iran with rather tough rhetoric,” he emphasized.

According to the Turkologist, if the conflict deepens and, for example, NATO decides to become more actively involved, Turkey’s territory could become a strategically important hub for supplies and possible military deployments.

“If NATO gets involved and Turkey’s regular army participates in operations, this could lead to much broader and more dangerous developments,” he said.

According to the Turkologist, Ankara is still holding back its trump card for later, waiting to see how events will develop. He noted that for Turkey it is important not to lose the ability to maneuver between both the West and regional actors.

Abrahamyan did not rule out that in the event of changing scenarios, Turkey could revise its statements, but at this moment, he said, Ankara is interested in avoiding direct military involvement.

“At this stage, controlled tension is beneficial for Turkey, not open military confrontation,” Abrahamyan concluded.