Afkār is a publication of the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, providing short-form analyses, insights, and perspectives on regional issues and developments from the Council's experts and outside contributors. Afkār is published in English and Arabic, and is edited by Omar H. Rahman.
Ankara’s handling of the Iran war has strengthened its foreign policy standing while helping deflect domestic criticism and portray political opposition as a liability in a volatile region. The risk is that Türkiye’s geopolitical leverage is used to consolidate political power rather than strengthen national capacity.
As Syria rebuilds, the new government in Damascus is using energy, infrastructure, and regional connectivity not only to revive its economy but to restore its diplomatic standing and strategic relevance.