Turkey's Support for Pakistan: Analyzing Erdogan's Motivations

Turkey's Military Assistance to Pakistan

In the wake of India's military operations targeting terror camps across nine sites in Pakistan, Turkey has shown significant support for its ally. This assistance includes the provision of drones and various weaponry, which Pakistan has utilized in its defense efforts. Turkey has consistently backed Pakistan in numerous international discussions, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan making several visits to Islamabad in recent years. This raises the question of Erdoğan's motivations for supporting Pakistan, with experts suggesting a desire to revive the influence of the Ottoman Empire.

Erdogan's Vision of the Ottoman Caliphate

As reported by Navbharat Times, analyst Zacak Tanvir attributes Erdoğan's actions to a desire for an 'Islamic' revival. During a discussion on DD News, Tanvir expressed that Erdoğan aims to restore the 'Ottoman Caliphate,' viewing Pakistan as a crucial ally due to its nuclear capabilities and military strength. Turkey perceives Pakistan as an essential component of its broader ambitions.

Military Collaboration and Cultural Revival

Turkey's support extends beyond military aid; it also regards Pakistan as a partner within the Islamic community. Efforts to revive cultural elements from the Caliphate era are evident, as seen in Turkey's training initiatives for Pakistan's Dolphin Police unit.

Erdogan's National Pride in Ottoman Heritage

Erdogan's admiration for the Ottoman Empire is well-documented, exemplified by his controversial decision to convert Hagia Sophia back into a mosque. He leverages the legacy of the Ottoman Empire to forge stronger ties with other Muslim nations.

Historical Context of the Ottoman Caliphate

The Ottoman Caliphate was established by the rulers of the Ottoman Empire, claiming the title of caliphs of Islam from 1517 until its abolition in 1924, following secular reforms by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey.

Operation Sindoor and Its Implications

On May 10, a Turkish Kamikaze drone was discovered in the Naushera region of Jammu and Kashmir. This followed India's Operation Sindoor on May 7, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), resulting in the neutralization of several high-profile terrorists linked to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), including Maulana Yusuf Azhar, who was wanted for the IC-814 hijacking.