Bipartisan lawmakers introduced the Turkey Diplomatic Realignment Act to change Turkey’s designation at the State Department from European to Near Eastern, reflecting its shifting alliances with adversaries like Russia and Iran. The act seeks to align U.S. foreign policy with Turkey’s current geopolitical stance under Erdogan, who is seen as undermining American interests and NATO unity. The Turkish government disputes these claims, maintaining its European identity.
Bipartisan House lawmakers have introduced the Turkey Diplomatic Realignment Act, aiming to change Turkey’s designation from a European country to a Near Eastern country at the U.S. State Department. This shift reflects Turkey’s increasing ties with nations like Russia, China, Iran, and Hamas, which conflict with U.S. and NATO interests. Representatives Brad Schneider and Gus Bilirakis spearheaded this initiative to formally recognize Turkey’s foreign policy shift under President Erdogan.
Rep. Schneider stated, “Turkey is at a crossroads, but Erdogan has made his choice.” He emphasized that Erdogan’s government supports Hamas and undermines NATO unity while still seeking benefits as a Western ally. Bilirakis concurred, noting that Erdogan’s actions undermine U.S. interests and destabilize the region, asserting a need for U.S. foreign policy to hold the Turkish regime accountable.
The Turkish government disagrees with this characterization of its foreign policy, asserting its longstanding European identity and membership in NATO and other European institutions. An official opined on the historical and geopolitical significance of Turkey’s European ties, emphasizing the country’s role within the European institutional framework and its commitment to shared values.
Jonathan Schanzer from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies described Turkey as a growing concern for U.S. policymakers, arguing that Turkey often acts like an adversary, supporting groups like Hamas and using its NATO membership to extract concessions from the U.S. The recent purchase of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system further highlights Turkey’s pivot toward Russia amid the Ukraine crisis.
The proposed legislation requires the State Department to update Turkey’s diplomatic status within 90 days and to conduct a five-year legislative review of the impacts of Turkey’s realignment. Endy Zemenides, Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council, praised the introduction of this act, advocating for a realistic approach to U.S.-Turkey relations instead of maintaining a false narrative of partnership.
The introduction of the Turkey Diplomatic Realignment Act by bipartisan lawmakers aims to officially reclassify Turkey’s status due to its foreign policy that contradicts U.S. interests. As Turkey strengthens ties with adversarial nations like Russia and Iran, lawmakers are pushing for a response that accurately reflects Turkey’s current geopolitical posture. This move represents a significant shift in U.S. diplomatic strategy regarding Turkey and emphasizes the need for accountability in U.S.-Turkey relations.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
