The agreement between Baghdad and Ankara for the handover of the "Bashiqah-Zilkan" base to the Iraqi army is seen as a sign of serious changes in Turkey's regional policies. This agreement, which appears to have been made with the support and green light from the U.S., does not mean a withdrawal of Turkey from its military positions in Iraq, but is considered a "strategic realignment" aimed at transitioning from military influence to the use of political and economic tools.
Analysis of the Agreement's Dimensions
This agreement comes at a time when Turkey is trying to manage its influence in the Middle East, especially in Iraq. The Bashiqah base, considered one of Turkey's most important military bases in Iraq, has recently become a center for military operations against armed groups. However, with the handover of this base to the Iraqi army, Ankara aims to reduce military costs and increase economic and political cooperation with Baghdad.
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The handover of this base could also strengthen Iraq's position against militia groups and enhance the political independence of this country. At the same time, this action may signal a change in Turkey's approach to its military policies in the region. It seems that Ankara is now focusing more on using diplomacy and economic tools to maintain its power in international and regional arenas.
Political and Economic Consequences
The new agreement could lead to strengthened economic relations between Iraq and Turkey. Although there have been many tensions between the two countries in the past, the reduction of military tensions now provides new opportunities for cooperation in various economic fields. This could have positive effects on the markets of both countries as well as their trade relations.
Moreover, this agreement could also be seen as a message to other countries in the region that Turkey is willing to expand its influence through diplomacy and economic cooperation rather than military force. This change in Turkey's strategy seems to be in favor of regional stability and could lead to reduced tensions and increased joint cooperation among countries.
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