Strategic shifts: the role of the Gulf Crisis in transforming Qatari-Turkish relations (2017–2021)

Purpose The study investigates how the 2017 Gulf crisis reshaped Qatari-Turkish relations, transforming them from cordial cooperation into a robust strategic alliance. It examines the political, military, and economic implications of Turkey’s support for Qatar during the blockade, and how this realignment altered the balance of power in the Gulf region, eroded Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) unity, and redefined Turkey’s role in regional geopolitics. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a qualitative political analysis approach grounded in international relations theory, particularly realism. It synthesizes academic sources, policy briefs, economic data, and military reports to assess the geopolitical, economic, and security dynamics of Qatari-Turkish relations during the crisis and contextualizes them within the broader shifts in regional and global power structures. Findings The Gulf crisis catalyzed a strategic partnership between Turkey and Qatar, strengthening military and economic ties while weakening GCC cohesion. Turkey’s rapid support helped Qatar withstand isolation, increased Turkish influence in the Gulf, and triggered realignments, including heightened militarization and a shift in regional alliances. The crisis exposed deep political divisions and a growing dependency on external actors. Research limitations/implications The study is primarily qualitative and may not fully capture the evolving nuances of post-crisis relations. It focuses on 2017–2021, potentially limiting insights into subsequent developments. The research highlights the need for further longitudinal studies on the sustainability of Turkey’s Gulf presence and the future of intra-Gulf cooperation amid external interventions. Practical implications For policymakers, the study underscores the strategic benefits of flexible alliances in times of crisis. It shows how middle powers like Turkey can use regional instability to enhance influence through diplomacy, military deployment, and economic partnerships. The findings are relevant for strategic planning in regional security, defense cooperation, and energy diversification. Social implications The crisis disrupted Gulf societal cohesion, severing kinship ties and exacerbating identity divisions. The research draws attention to how geopolitical conflicts trickle down to affect families, migration, and social trust across the Gulf. It calls for future policies that prioritize regional integration and social reconciliation alongside political realignment. Originality/value The study offers a comprehensive, multidimensional analysis of the 2017 Gulf crisis through the lens of Qatari-Turkish relations, combining geopolitical, economic, military, and sociocultural perspectives. It uniquely highlights how a regional blockade became an opportunity for strategic realignment and provides a novel case study of how middle powers expand influence during crises.