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Turkish foreign policy and diplomatic shifts

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2026-08-17 09:56 UTC → 2026-08-17 19:50 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Turkish leadership has expressed significant shifts in foreign policy priorities. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned that Turkey, in coordination with Qatar and Egypt, may take ~~“radical~~ ‘radical diplomatic ~~steps”~~ steps’ if Israel fails to adhere to the Gaza transition agreement, accusing Israel of intentionally stalling the process. ~~Concurrently,~~ President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ~~stated~~ has reiterated that European Union membership is no longer a priority for Turkey, though he noted the door to accession remains open. He suggested that the EU would be the “loser” if it continues to reject Turkey, noting that accession negotiations have been frozen due to concerns regarding democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights. Regarding defense relations with the United States, Erdogan mentioned a promise from President Donald Trump to reconsider Turkey’s return to the F-35 fighter jet program, which followed Turkey’s purchase of the Russian S-400 missile system. While lifting sanctions could facilitate this return, opposition remains in the U.S. Congress. On regional security, Erdogan discussed a defense agreement recently signed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, noting that Egypt could potentially join the alliance. He also addressed regional tensions, stating that Turkey would not shy away from conflict if attacked.

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