Between Continuity and Change: Turkey's Middle East Policy Reassessment in the Wake of the Syrian Crisis

Over the past few decades, Turkey's foreign policy approach toward the Middle East has undergone a significant transformation, particularly during the Justice and Development Party (JDP) era. This master's thesis aims to delve into the intricacies of Turkey's Middle East policy by conducting a comprehensive comparative analysis between the policy trends of the JDP's rule before and after the Syrian Civil War. By scrutinizing the underlying motivations, strategic objectives, and outcomes, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of Turkey's evolving role in the region. Before the Syrian Spring, marked by a combination of pragmatic diplomacy and the quest for a "zero problems with neighbors" policy, Turkey was positioned as a mediator and facilitator in various regional conflicts. Close economic ties, cultural affinities, and cooperation agreements were the cornerstones of this period's foreign policy approach. However, shifting geopolitical dynamics, regional uprisings, and the emergence of new challenges prompted a notable shift in Turkey's stance. The post-2011 era witnessed a recalibration of Turkey's Middle East policy, characterized by a more assertive and independent posture. This shift was exemplified by Turkey's involvement in the Syrian conflict, its engagement with various non-state actors, and the diversification of diplomatic partnerships. The interplay of factors such as the Syrian civil war, the rise of ISIS, changing alliances, and evolving global power structures contributed to Turkey's reevaluation of its role and objectives in the region. Through an in-depth examination of primary sources, policy statements, and official documents, this thesis uncovers the driving forces behind Turkey's policy evolution. The study also assesses the impacts of these policy changes on Turkey's regional influence, its relationships with key Middle Eastern actors, and its broader foreign policy objectives.