Michael Rubin, a prominent Middle East expert, emphasizes the urgent need for India to recognize Turkey as a sponsor of terrorism due to its support for Kashmiri militants. He advocates for India to adopt a more aggressive diplomatic stance and consider supporting the Kurdish movement as a strategic countermeasure. Rubin also notes Turkey’s declining influence in Western politics, suggesting a growing consensus on its terrorist affiliations.
In a recent and insightful interview with IANS, Michael Rubin, a distinguished Middle East expert, examined the complexities of Turkey’s geopolitical role and its support for terrorism. Notably, he highlighted Turkey’s connections with militant groups and the impact on India’s security interests, especially regarding Kashmir. Rubin emphasized India’s need to reassess its diplomatic strategies in light of Turkey’s growing ties with Pakistan and its sponsorship of terrorism.
Rubin, who holds significant experience in the region, explained the implications of Abdullah Ocalan’s call for the PKK to disarm. He noted that Ocalan, imprisoned for decades, lacks direct control over the PKK, which has diversified its leadership. As a result, calls for a ceasefire may face skepticism given the history of failed agreements. The PKK perceives ongoing threats from Turkey and remains reluctant to disarm unilaterally.
Furthermore, Rubin discussed Erdogan’s evolution from a perceived pragmatist to an ideologue, stressing his unwavering support for Islamist causes worldwide, including militant groups in Kashmir. Rubin advocated for India to support the Kurdish movement and counterbalance Turkey’s aggression by aligning with Kurdish interests. He believes this strategy may exert pressure on Turkey regarding its support for terrorism.
Additionally, Rubin remarked that India must adopt a more assertive diplomatic approach, responding robustly to Turkey’s actions that threaten its interests. He pointed out that previous Indian responses to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan had a significant impact, and similar assertiveness is needed against Turkey’s involvement in supporting Kashmiri militants.
Regarding Western perceptions of Turkey, Rubin expressed uncertainty about a unified stance from the United States and Europe. While the Trump administration has historically been friendly toward Erdogan, scrutiny of Turkey’s actions has increased, with growing bipartisan support in Congress for recognizing Turkey as a state sponsor of terrorism. This shift reflects a diminishing influence of Turkey in Washington and highlights a need for a recalibrated U.S. policy towards Turkish support for Islamist terrorism.
Michael Rubin’s insights shed light on the significant challenge Turkey poses to regional stability and India’s strategic interests. He highlights the necessity for India to fortify its diplomatic stance and consider supporting Kurdish autonomy as a counterbalance against Turkey’s terrorism sponsorship. Furthermore, Rubin emphasizes the declining influence of Turkey in the West, suggesting a shift in how Turkey is viewed, particularly in the context of terrorism. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, India’s approach must adapt to effectively counter these threats.
Original Source: www.thehansindia.com
