Turkey’s Role in Terrorism: Insights from Middle East Expert Michael Rubin

Michael Rubin discusses Turkey’s support for terrorism, emphasizing its implications for India. He highlights the skeptical sentiment among the PKK regarding Ocalan’s calls for disarmament, and promotes India’s potential support for the Kurdish movement as a strategic response to Turkey’s relationship with Pakistan. Additionally, Rubin notes the declining influence of Turkey in US politics, hinting at an evolving diplomatic landscape.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Michael Rubin, a prominent Middle East expert, examines Turkey’s increasing influence and its ties with Pakistan, as well as the implications for India amidst allegations of Turkey’s support for terrorism. Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, emphasizes the need for India to recognize Turkey’s actions and strategically address its ramifications for regional stability.

Rubin explains that Abdullah Ocalan, the imprisoned leader of the PKK, lacks direct influence over the organization due to years of isolation. His recent calls for disarmament may not reflect the current sentiment within the PKK, as historical ceasefires have consistently failed, leading to skepticism among Kurdish groups regarding reliance on Ocalan’s directives.

Discussing Turkey’s growing relationship with Pakistan, Rubin articulates that India must leverage its ties with the Kurdish movement as a diplomatic strategy against Turkey’s support for terrorism. He emphasizes that while there are pragmatic concerns, supporting Kurds also recognizes their quest for autonomy and validation.

Rubin asserts that India must adopt a more assertive diplomatic stance, considering its status as the world’s largest democracy. He argues that it is imperative for India to counter Turkey’s support for militancy actively rather than maintain a passive approach, particularly in light of past Pakistani aggression.

On the global front, Rubin remarks on the inconclusive stance of the West regarding Turkey’s rising Islamist influence, particularly under the Trump administration. He suggests that while Trump has historically shown affinity towards Erdogan, skepticism towards Turkey is growing among US lawmakers, which may lead to a reevaluation of diplomatic ties.

Moreover, Rubin notes a significant decline in Turkey’s influence in Washington, hinting at a bipartisan recognition of Turkey’s support for terrorism. He stresses that this shifting landscape presents opportunities for India to redefine its strategic alliances and responses to external threats.

In conclusion, Michael Rubin’s insights underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Turkey’s actions in relation to terrorism and its growing influence with Pakistan. He advocates for a more assertive diplomatic strategy from India to counter these threats, while also recognizing the worthiness of supporting the Kurdish movement. As perceptions towards Turkey shift in Western politics, India has the opportunity to adjust its strategic posture accordingly, considering its stature in global affairs.

Original Source: www.thehansindia.com