Turkey is making a play for regional power

Commentary feature in which author writes 'Next to Iran, Nato member Turkey is now the biggest headache for the west. With Egypt sinking into torpor and Riyadh firmly ensconced on the fence between Washington and Tehran, Turkey has seen the leadership of the region up for grabs – and is going for it. It has drawn Syria into its orbit and has reached a nuclear deal with Iran, its rival for hegemony'. 'The US must learn that the real contest is between itself, Turkey and Iran. It is now up against both.'

ESO: Background information: Turkey to review ties with Israel http://www.europeansources.info/record/turkey-to-review-ties-with-israel-turkish-aid-group-fields-criticisms/

ESO: Background information: Ankara’s assertiveness shifts balance of power http://www.europeansources.info/record/ankaras-assertiveness-shifts-balance-of-power/

EurActiv, 8.8.11: Turkey delivers ‘final warning’ to Syria http://www.euractiv.com/en/global-europe/turkey-delivers-final-warning-syria-news-506931

---