Paper title:
 Positioning the Turkish Navy in the Eastern Mediterranean Strategic Triangle
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4316/CC.2025.02.11
Published in:
Issue 2 (Vol. 31) / 2025
Publishing date:
2025-12-31
Pages:
551 - 574
Author(s):
Meysune Yaşar
Abstract:
 This study analyses Türkiye's naval strategy in the Eastern Mediterranean within the framework of the strategic triangle model. By applying the strategic triangle model to the multidimensional competition evident in the Eastern Mediterranean, the author highlights three fundamental blocks of Türkiye's naval presence in the region: the transactive triangle, the stable triangle, and the fragile triangle. The transactive triangle comprises the United States, Israel, and Greece, together with the Greek Cypriot Administration in the Eastern Mediterranean, whereas the stable triangle includes Russia, Iran, and Syria. The study analyses the alliance models presented by these two structures in the Eastern Mediterranean through the strategic triangle approach and asks how Türkiye shapes its ability to act within these structures. It also presents the fragile triangle model as a reflection of the Turkish navy's steps towards autonomy and balance. It discusses the steps undertaken by Türkiye, Qatar, and Libya in this direction. The study discussing the stages using the fragile triangle model and examines the possibilities and limitations of Türkiye's long-term presence in the region.
Keywords:
 Eastern Mediterranean, Turkish Navy, United States, Israel, Greece, Cyprus, Iran, Syria, Qatar, Libya, Strategic, Transactive, Stable Triangle.




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