Recently, President Erdogan proposed the idea of forming an Islamic alliance that opposes Israel’s “expansionism.” This suggestion raised many questions about whether it is possible to make this proposal a reality; if yes, then how would this alliance work? According to him, Israel’s aggressive action is increasing day by day, and only a united front of Islamic countries can prevent Israel from committing such harmful actions. 

Erdogan also pointed out that Turkey is the nation that started working on it. This country makes efforts to improve relations with Egypt and Syria. This type of action from Turkey is also part of creating this unity. He also made awareness of Lebanon and Syria’s dangerous actions. However, many wonder if this idea can be turned into reality, sparking discussion on its feasibility.

Ankara is reacting to two major complexities. First is the highest chance of regional conflicts that could mess up the business and stability of the nation. Second is the murder of the Turkish American woman. Israeli troops killed her in the West Bank, which also increased the tension in the region. 

Türkiye’s actions reflect its long-term strategy. They have suggested different plans, like overseeing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or forming a group to highlight the Gaza situation globally. Erdoğan recently pushed for a summit with Muslim leaders to discuss the Gaza conflict and addressed it at an Arab League meeting.

Why is improving relations with Egypt and Syria important?

Erdogan also highlighted the importance of improving relations with Syria and Egypt. This is because both of these nations have strategic value. Both Egypt and Syria stood against Israel in the Yom Kippur War. It united the Muslim world. Today, these nations are still struggling with the Israel issue and want to prevent further complexities. 

The structure and goal of Erodogan’s idea is not clear. However, there are many strategies in this idea that could be considered. One option is to utilize broad sanctions and nationwide boycotts. This larger-scale boycott would be more impactful as compared to the smaller scale. Past events, like the oil embargo, show that such measures can be effective. Another way is to work together diplomatically to keep Israel alone. Especially with the fact that Israel wants to improve relations with Arab countries. For example, in November, Jordan, Turkey, and Bahrain withdrew their ambassadors from Israel.

The question remains whether an Islamic alliance is possible. Muslim countries are not united; they mostly just condemn Israeli actions and call for a cease-fire. Turkey has pointed out that Israel benefits from this division and has urged Muslim nations to come together to be more effective.

Islamic countries have different aims and interests. They struggle to coordinate policies. Egypt and Jordan both work with Israel in many ways and have old peace deals. Furthermore, with the help of the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco also made peace agreements with Israel. Before the October 7 incident, the United States was trying to balance between Saudi Arabia and Israel. 

They were trying to help both nations by making the same deal. And many people think that this strategy of the US compels Hamas to attack Israel. Some other nations, like Iran and Yemen, are fighting with Israel directly. Qatar stands in favor of Hamas and makes efforts to mediate between the groups. However, these countries also face criticism from their people. This is because the citizens were not happy about their governments’ handling of the situation with Israel. They are also unable to explain why they coordinate with Israel and continue trading with them. 

Despite tensions, trade between Israel and some Middle Eastern countries, like Egypt, Morocco, and Bahrain, increased until May.

The ongoing conflict has generated diverse reactions, but the West’s biased stance and the United States still stand in favor of Israel. Despite many Palestinian civilian casualties, this highlights a need for more than just words from the Islamic world.

Given the varying relationships Muslim countries have with Israel, each nation has unique leverage and tools. This variety could be used positively to exert pressure on Israel, pushing for a cease-fire and equitable terms.