Assessing the Possibility of War between Israel and Turkey
Although a direct war between Turkey and Israel is not yet a reality, rising political, military, and ideological tensions could push both countries closer to open conflict.
Although a direct war between Turkey and Israel is not yet a reality, rising political, military, and ideological tensions could push both countries closer to open conflict.
An analysis of the European Union’s relations with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan reveals a profound divide between the EU’s normative values and its geopolitical imperatives concerning Afghanistan.
The trilateral meetings between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China were initiated at a time when tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan had reached a peak, and armed conflict within Afghanistan was intensifying.
The visit of Amir Khan Muttaqi to Qatar reflects the broader efforts of the Islamic Emirate to help Afghanistan move beyond its current crisis. Taking place amid international sanctions and ongoing humanitarian challenges, the trip focused on key areas such as political engagement, economic support, and humanitarian aid. Through meetings with Qatari officials, the Islamic Emirate aimed to gain greater international legitimacy while strengthening Qatar’s role as a strategic mediator and partner. In this context, the Emirate seeks to boost economic ties, attract foreign investment, and expand trade relations, although significant challenges remain.
The recent incident in Pahalgam has heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. As a result, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, while Pakistan has delayed the Shimla Agreement.
Saudi Arabia, once a staunch supporter of the Islamic Emirate, severed its ties following global and regional shifts concerning Afghanistan. In alignment with international sentiment at the time, largely opposed to the Islamic Emirate, Riyadh sought to delegitimize the Emirate’s struggle by portraying it as religiously unjustified.
In May 2018, President Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) and called for renegotiation, urging the Islamic Republic of Iran to engage in a new agreement with Washington. Since then, Trump has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran should it refuse to comply. In 2019, Trump fully prepared for a strike on Iran but ultimately refrained. At present, the threat of military action appears primarily aimed at instilling fear among Iranian officials to pressure them into negotiations on U.S. terms.
In summary, the closure of the Torkham Gate is not in the interest of either side. Although a recent tribal jirga (council) was held between the two parties, resulting in a ceasefire, no decision has been made yet to reopen the gate.
By: Center for Strategic & Regional Studies Note: Click here for the PDF file of this analysis. ___________________________________________________________________ In this issue: An Overview of […]