Turkish Foreign Policy in the Mediterranean: An Analytical Overview

This paper provides an in-depth exploration of Türkiye’s evolving foreign policy in the Mediterranean, with a focus on the historical, domestic, and geopolitical factors that shape its regional strategy. Eurasian country’s approach, anchored in the “Blue Homeland” doctrine, reflects an assertive stance on maritime claims and a drive to assert sovereignty over critical sea routes and resources. This approach is largely influenced by rising nationalism, economic imperatives, and the strategic goal of securing energy independence in the face of regional competition. The study examines Ankara’s complex interactions with key Mediterranean neighbours, including Greece, Egypt, and Israel, alongside its relationships with multilateral entities like NATO and the European Union. By analysing both bilateral and multilateral engagements, the paper highlights the ways in which domestic political dynamics—such as economic pressures and public opinion—intersect with global forces to impact Türkiye’s Mediterranean strategy. The analysis also emphasizes the influence of geopolitical rivalries and Türkiye’s balancing act between Western alliances and its partnerships with non-Western powers, notably Russia. The paper concludes by assessing possible future directions for Türkiye’s Mediterranean policy considering regional diplomacy, evolving economic priorities, and shifting roles of global powers. This examination offers valuable insights into the complexities of Türkiye’s Mediterranean ambitions, suggesting that a balanced approach, one that combines assertiveness with diplomacy, may provide the most sustainable path forward. Such a strategy would enable Türkiye to safeguard its interests while minimizing the risk of alienating key regional and global allies.