Category: Authors

Lladro Produces ‘Karabagh Horse’ Porcelain Figurines as Propaganda for Azerbaijan

Regrettably, the only things that matter in this world are money and power. All the other issues that naïve people put a value on, such as truth, justice, and human rights, are self-defeating delusions. Rich and powerful people and countries can do almost anything they want. The only ones that can stop them are those who possess greater power. The weak are at the mercy of the powerful wolves.

These thoughts came to my mind as I received an email from the Lladro Company, which is world famous for the porcelain figurines it produces in Valencia, Spain. A lot of people have valuable collections of Lladro figurines in their homes. They are frequently given as gifts.

Karabakh horse – Alyetmez, photo 1867

The email I received from Lladro was a pitch to sell its latest porcelain figurine named: ‘Karabakh Horse.’ Next to the image of a horse, the email stated: “The Karabakh horse is a symbol of Azerbaijan’s cultural legacy and its indomitable spirit. Our artists have portrayed it in porcelain, underscoring the elegance and beauty of this unique breed. Following ancient tradition, the horse is covered with a Karabakh rug with its rightly famous patterns decorated in intense colors and golden lusters. Discover all the details of this specimen, available in a limited edition.”

In the above short paragraph, Lladro made several factual errors. First of all, the Karabagh horse cannot be a symbol of Azerbaijan since Karabagh (Artsakh) is a part of historic Armenia. To make matters worse, Lladro falsely added that this horse is a symbol of Azerbaijan’s “cultural legacy and its indomitable spirit.” There is no such thing as Azerbaijan’s ‘cultural legacy’ since the country is a little over 100 years old. I also don’t understand Lladro’s reference to Azerbaijan’s ‘indomitable spirit.’ Where did that ‘indomitable spirit’ come from? Azerbaijan, during its short-lived history, has engaged in barbaric beheadings of Armenian prisoners of war, committed massacres, ethnic cleansing, and genocide, destroyed Armenian churches and cultural monuments, distorted history, and committed massive violations of the human rights of its own citizens, including the jailing of journalists and political dissidents on trumped-up charges.

Since I know very little about horses, I searched about the ‘Karabagh horse’ on the Internet. Here is what I found: “The Karabagh horse breed is influenced by Persian horses and other breeds like the Akhal-Teke, Kabarda, Turkoman, and Arabian horses.” The Akhal-Teke horse originates from Turkmenistan, while the Kabarda from the Kabardino-Balkaria Republic in Russia. I don’t see any reference to Azerbaijan in that sentence.

In another obvious error, Lladro explained in its email that ‘Karabakh Horse’ means ‘golden horse.’ This is false. The name Karabagh is composed of two words: ‘Kara’ which means black in Turkish and ‘bagh’ which means garden in Farsi. Therefore, Karabagh means Black Garden.

Lladro is selling the ‘Karabakh Horse’ porcelain figurine for $6,580 each. It is a ‘limited edition’ production with only 750 copies. It weighs 20 lbs. The dimensions are: 17 inches (high), 20 inches (wide), and 8 inches (long).

To promote the ‘Karabakh Horse’ figurine, Lladro held its unveiling at the Shirvanshah Palace Museum in Baku, where the Azerbaijan National Conservatory provided a live musical concert. The guest speaker was Yashar Quluzade, the owner of the largest number of actual Karabagh horses.

To represent Karabagh as part of Azerbaijan, and promote the Karabagh horse worldwide, Pres. Aliyev gifted in 2022 a Karabagh horse and two equestrian-themed sculptures to Queen Elizabeth II of England. This is the second time that the Queen has received a Karabagh horse from Azerbaijan. The first one was in 1956.

Since the only thing Lladro executives care about is profit, Armenians and their supporters should counter the use of the Karabagh horse as a tool for Azeri propaganda by boycotting the purchase of all Lladro products. Complaints should be sent to Ana Rodríguez Nogueiras, the Chief Executive Officer of Lladro. Her email is: [email protected].

I do not know what kind of business arrangements have been made between Azerbaijan’s leaders and Lladro. Who is getting what percentage of the sales and who is personally benefiting from the resulting income?

It is surprising that the Karabagh Horse figurines are still not sold out since they were launched several months ago. Since Azeri leaders donate lavish gifts to foreign dignitaries visiting Azerbaijan, why haven’t they purchased all 750 copies of the Karabagh Horse porcelain and given them as souvenirs? I am certain that Pres. Aliyev, who is a billionaire, can easily afford to purchase all 750 copies at $6,580 each for a total cost of $4.9 million.

January 11, 2025
Letter to College of Staten Island President Timothy G. Lynch

President Timothy G. Lynch
College of Staten Island
2800 Victory Boulevard
Staten Island, NY 10314
January 1, 2025

Dear President Lynch,

I write to you with deep concern regarding a matter that has the potential to tarnish the reputation of the College of Staten Island (CSI). I am compelled to address the recent remarks made by Ms. Özlem Gönér, who, as a Steering Committee member of the Emergency Committee for Rojava, appeared on Democracy Now on December 24, 2024. In her commentary, Ms. Gönér stated that “Turkey is a major threat to Kurds and to democratic experiments that Kurds have been implementing in the region starting in 2014,” and continued by claiming that “Turkey, Israel, and the U.S. collectively are trying to carve out this land, and Kurds are under threat.” While these statements may appear innocuous on the surface, they carry with them a dangerous misrepresentation of the realities on the ground, particularly concerning Türkiye’s legitimate national security concerns and its role as a NATO ally.

Ms. Gönér’s assertions are not only misleading but are also ideologically aligned with a group that maintains dangerous ties to the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party), a Marxist-Leninist organization recognized as a terrorist group by the United States, the European Union, and Türkiye. Over 45,000 women, children, teachers, doctors and men, lives have been lost to PKK violence.  U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Ankara on December 12, 2024, aptly described the PKK as “an enduring threat” to Türkiye. Furthermore, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin December 9th 2024 acknowledged Türkiye’s legitimate security concerns, particularly regarding the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF=YPG, PYD), which are closely tied to the PKK. December 13, 2024 Former CIA Senior Agent Glenn Corn on the Cipher Brief said” Turkiye is a much more strategic partner of importance for the U.S then working with YPG, PYD / PKK “Kurds”. Also Former US Ambassador to Turkey David Satterfield : recognizing A NATO Partner and Ally Turkey to defend itself against terror to exercise it right of self-defense CBS News December 18, 2024. December 19 2024 Former US Ambassador to Turkiye James Jeffery “US Backed SDF, given its undeniable ties to the PKK, is a  serious national-security threat to Turkiye.”

During Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing on combating ISIS, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) questions Secretary Carter and General Dunford on the U.S. military strategy in working with terrorist PKK and YPG in Syrai and Iraq highlighting the YPG’s connections to the PKK and their acts of terror, which have cost thousands of civilian lives.

The political framework of Rojava, which Ms. Gönér supports, is rooted in the ideology of Abdullah Öcalan, the leader of the PKK, thus creating a direct or indirect link between her actions and the PKK’s objectives. It is crucial to distinguish between humanitarian advocacy and political or military affiliations.

Despite any claims of neutrality, the ideological overlap between these groups raises significant concerns about the motivations behind Ms. Gönér’s rhetoric.

First and foremost, Türkiye’s official name—the “Republic of Türkiye”—is not merely a formality but represents the nation’s sovereignty and identity. By referring to the country as “Turkey,” Ms. Gönér, along with others in her circle, undermines the diplomatic respect due to a sovereign state. This disregard for proper naming conventions is a symptom of a broader trend to delegitimize Türkiye and its government on the international stage. Furthermore, Ms. Gönér’s remarks about the deaths of journalists Nazım Daştan and Cihan Bilgin, who she claims were targeted by Türkiye are baseless and lack substantiation in any court of law, including the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). There is no publicly available information supporting her allegations. Her attempt to frame these deaths as a pretext to vilify Türkiye’s counterterrorism efforts only serves to further distort the narrative surrounding the country’s legitimate security actions.

Also US State Department has never taken Ms Goner position.

Ms. Gönér’s comments about Türkiye’s engagement with ISIS are equally misguided. She falsely portrays Türkiye as a supporter of ISIS, a claim that has been repeatedly debunked by numerous international figures. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Ankara on December 12, 2024, correctly described the PKK & ISIS  as “an enduring threat” to Türkiye. Additionally, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, on December 9, 2024, recognized Türkiye’s legitimate security concerns, particularly regarding the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which have strong ties to the PKK. Former CIA Senior Agent Glenn Corn, on December 13, 2024, emphasized that Türkiye is a far more strategic partner for the United States than groups like the YPG/PYD/PKK and ISIS . Former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, David Satterfield, former U.S. Ambassador James Jeffrey also affirmed the necessity of recognizing Türkiye’s right to self-defense in the face of these terrorist threats.

Turkey has played a significant role in the fight against ISIS with only country with Soldier going face to face  on the ground , receiving recognition from various Western leaders and institutions.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has highlighted the alliance’s and Turkiyes commitment to combating international terrorism, including ISIS.

Think Tanks: Council on Foreign Relations (CFR): While CFR has critically analyzed Turkey’s strategies, it acknowledges Turkey’s active military campaigns against ISIS. In an article titled “Turkey Is Lying About Fighting ISIS,” CFR discusses the complexities of Turkey’s involvement, indicating that while Turkey has engaged ISIS militarily, there are nuances to its broader regional strategy.

António Guterres: In October 2019, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed acknowledging Turkey’s security concerns related to fighting ISIS.

United Nations: Former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon emphasized Turkey’s pivotal role in the fight against ISIS

Germany: The German government backed Turkey’s military initiatives against ISIS, with officials noting the importance of Turkey’s role in the regional fight against terrorism. India: In October 2019, during Turkey’s military operations in northeastern Syria, Turkey justified as part of its fight against terrorist groups, including ISIS.

Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia has also publicly supported Türkiye’s fight against ISIS, both in terms of military operations and international diplomatic efforts to combat terrorism.

Indonesia – Indonesian leaders have consistently commended Türkiye’s efforts in combating ISIS and terrorism in the region .

Malaysia – The Malaysian government has recognized Türkiye’s role in the fight against ISIS.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) – UAE leaders have praised Türkiye’s role in countering terrorism, particularly ISIS, noting Türkiye’s significant contributions to the security of the region.

Kuwait – The Kuwaiti government has expressed gratitude towards Türkiye for its contribution to the regional fight against ISIS, especially in terms of humanitarian and military efforts.

Jordan – As a neighboring country affected by ISIS, Jordan has often acknowledged Türkiye’s efforts in fighting ISIS, especially considering their shared interest in regional stability.

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has analyzed Turkey’s role in regional security dynamics. In discussions about Turkey’s actions in Syria, CSIS noted the complexities of Turkey’s involvement in the region, including its stance against ISIS.

These acknowledgments underscore Turkey’s active participation in the international effort to combat ISIS, as recognized by U.S. officials and policy analysis organizations.

Moreover, it is important to address Ms. Gönér’s use of the phrase “a big threat to the Kurdish population.” Such rhetoric ignores the fact that over 15 million Turkish Kurds live peacefully within Türkiye, enjoying equal rights under the law. Many of these Kurdish citizens hold positions of great responsibility, including in Türkiye’s highest offices. The PKK, however, is not representative of the Kurdish population; it is a terrorist organization that has waged a violent campaign against both Turkish civilians and the Kurdish people themselves.

o frame Türkiye’s counterterrorism efforts as an attack on the Kurdish people is not only inaccurate but harmful. Türkiye has long been a protector of vulnerable Kurdish populations, as demonstrated by its efforts during the Gulf War, when it sheltered over 500,000 Kurds fleeing Saddam Hussein. Since the Syrian Civil War began in 2012, Türkiye has hosted millions of refugees, including tens of thousands of Syrian Kurds, providing them with refuge from the brutality of PKK and YPG forces.

Türkiye’s anti-terror operations are focused on groups like the PKK and its affiliates, such as the YPG and PYD, which have exploited regional instability to pursue separatist and extremist goals. Not Kurds.

In recent statements, Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) , has emphasized the need for the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK / YPG- PYD  ) to cease its activities within the Kurdistan Region. He has described the PKK / YPG, PYD   as a “headache” for both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, criticizing the group. Mr. Barzani has called on the terrorist YPG linked to PKK to distance its operations from the people of  ”kurdistan”, highlighting that the group’s actions are detrimental to the region’s stability and security.

On December 25th 2024 Abdullah Keddo, a representative of the Kurdish National Council in Syria (ENKS), the main political representative of Kurds “We refuse to accept the presence of the   PKK and its affiliates in Syria, all of which must be removed from the region,”

Kurdish Parliament in Iraq: The Kurdish Parliament has expressed gratitude to Turkey for its continued efforts to ensure the safety of Kurds in Iraq, including the provision of military support against ISIS during the 2014-2017 period. Many Kurdish parliamentarians have recognized Turkey’s role in promoting the Kurdish region’s economic development. Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) officials: Many Kurdish leaders in Iraq, particularly from the KRG, have expressed gratitude towards Turkey for its support in protecting the Kurdish population in northern Iraq from Saddam Hussein’s regime following the Gulf War. This support included humanitarian aid, shelter for refugees, and logistical assistance in the establishment of a safe zone in northern Iraq in the early 1990s. These expressions of gratitude and praise for Turkey’s support reflect the relationship that Kurdish groups have had with Turkey over the years, particularly in times of regional conflict. Ms. Goner forgot to mention.

As a NATO ally, Türkiye has continuously stood at the forefront of efforts to combat terrorism and preserve regional stability with us in America. Ms. Gönér’s characterization of Türkiye’s actions as a threat undermines the strategic importance of this alliance and sows division where none should exist. Instead of promoting a nuanced understanding of the situation, she inflames tensions and perpetuates misinformation that damages diplomatic relations between NATO allies.

In addition, I must express my concern that Ms. Gönér’s rhetoric is finding a platform at CSI. The College of Staten Island, a respected institution of higher learning, should not serve as a mouthpiece for groups with potential ties to terrorist organizations. The Emergency Committee for Rojava, of which Ms. Gönér is a part, has been associated with the PKK’s terrorist ideology, and her comments align with this group’s broader goals. It is crucial that CSI consider the implications of hosting individuals who, through their statements and affiliations, may inadvertently or intentionally undermine national security, harm U.S.-Türkiye and Israeli relations, and weaken NATO’s collective strength.

In conclusion, the ongoing campaign to delegitimize Türkiye—both within academic institutions and on the global stage—poses a grave threat to regional stability. The spread of one-sided, inflammatory narratives only exacerbates tensions and diverts attention from the real threats posed by groups like the PKK, YPG, and ISIS. I urge you to take this matter seriously and ensure that College of Staten Island, CSI remains a place where diverse perspectives are encouraged, but not at the cost of the integrity and national security of the United States, Turkiye, Isreal and its NATO allies.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Ibrahim Kurtulus

Cc: Chazanoff School of Business Dept.

Management- CSI

Sociology and Anthropology Dept

Faculty & Staff

January 7, 2025
The axis of Turkish foreign policy towards Iraq between security and defense and diplomacy

Yalman Haceroğlu writes: The axis of Turkish foreign policy towards Iraq between security and defense and diplomacy

Before drawing the strategic map of Turkish policy towards Iraq through the constants, determinants and calculations of Iraq in Turkish foreign policy, we must shed light on the imagination that contains sentences and phrases to explain the purpose of international policy.

Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527), an Italian thinker, philosopher and politician, says that the purpose of politics is to maintain the strength of the state and work to maintain and strengthen it, as these means based on the state’s foreign policy make it achieve internal strength and enable it to expand its authority abroad.

On the other hand, Friedrich Hegel (1770-1831), a German philosopher, believes that the state is based on the principle of the authority of the will, and from this standpoint the state must be independent in its external relations and not subject to the authority of another state. That is, it works according to what its will alone dictates.

By studying the opinions and theories of philosophers in politics and building an independent state, we must determine the components of building an independent state, and the source of these components is thought and politics, and in other words, political thought in building a state.

First, some researchers went to the point that politics is a person’s awareness of the creatures around him and the direct exchange of benefits with these creatures. Then this individuality turned into societalism through the development of human ideas that enabled him the ability and capacity to be an inventor. This transformation from individualism of relationship and benefit to collectivism of relationship and benefit was the role of politics. At each stage, man had to realize organisation and order, and since these two things require thought, which is the main driver of politics. Thus, man entered a new phase, which is the overlap between thought and politics.

The overlap between thought and politics includes three stages according to the aforementioned Italian thinker and philosopher, Niccolo Machiavelli: –

The first stage: the practical apply of political work

The second stage: the mental practice of political work, which includes writing, publishing ,literature, presentation and expression.

The third stage: Combining practical apply and mental practice, and led to output of balanced equation between thought and politics that appears and as two parallel lines. However, there remains a disparity in the mentality level between those who practice apply and in terms of the diversity of ideas. The mentality level will not disappear as long as there is a disparity in the culture possessed by politicians and as long as there is sufficient space for personal interests and whims in some souls and as long as there are mental illnesses that we can call political disability that may be apparent or hidden but appear in behavior.

In another context, Machiavelli believes that there are qualities and characteristics that the leader of the state or its prince must emulate, including shrewdness, insight and acumen that qualify the prince of the state to rely on his military strength without interacting with the outside and without resorting to additional forces or military assistance in terms of land, air and sea equipment and mechanisms.

When we examine these components in the nature of Turkish foreign policy and in Turkish internal affairs, we see it necessary to formulate these questions: Does the Turkish Republic have the authority of will? Is the Republic of Turkey an independent state in its foreign relations? How has Turkey been able to maintain its position of power? How do we view the overlap and interaction between politics and thought among Turkish politicians and those concerned with the Arab file, especially the Iraqi file, and the relationship between the intelligence establishment and the diplomatic establishment? To answer these questions, we will remove the curtain from the military and political scene in the Republic of Turkey, in addition to the statements of Turkish leaders, headed by Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of the Republic of Turkey. We can consider 2023 the year of unprecedented Turkish defense industries. Turkey has sought with all its weight to standardize, fortify and strengthen its security forces in order to eliminate external dependency and create a long-term military defense vision through the use of modern technologies in military manufacturing and defense.

With its independent military industry, Turkey has produced the ATAK 2 attack helicopter, the combat drone and the jet trainer aircraft. Turkey was also not far from producing air defense systems and producing combat helicopter engines. In the field of armor, the Turkish military industry has produced the Tay tanks.

In the naval force, the largest Turkish ship, Anadolu TCG, entered the Turkish Navy’s arsenal.

The foreign policy of the Turkish state has adapted to the authority of the will in the state. Whereas the independent state is represented by its true entity through its foreign policy and not allowing interference in its internal affairs. The approach of foreign policy is the solid means to maintain the security and independence of the state by building a wall that prevents external interference in the internal affairs of that state. Here, Niccolo Machiavelli has proven his saying that the goal of politics is to maintain the power of the state and the expansion of its authority abroad, but in our opinion it must be in harmony with international decisions without affecting the sovereignty of the countries with which it deals diplomatically and politically.. These constants and determinants are among the priorities of Turkish foreign policy.

Turkey has recorded in its strategic file towards Iraq the pivotal points through an equation, which includes on the first side security and defense and on the second side of the equation there is intelligence diplomacy that forms foreign policy. That is, the Turkish Republic has drawn up a roadmap in its foreign policy towards Iraq since 2017, indicating the strongholds of the terrorist PKK organization on it in order to carry out military operations deep inside Iraqi territory in order to preserve its security and national borders.

Here the question arises, how did Turkey draw this military and political strategy together ?

Turkish foreign policy has focused on the two dimensions that included intelligence and diplomatic work since Dr. Hakan Fidan led the foreign policy portfolio in 2017, the head of the Turkish Intelligence Agency who assumed responsibility in 2010.

Fidan relied on applied intelligence to formulate Turkish foreign policy.

On the other hand, Hakan Fidan drew a foreign policy based on intelligence information. This is the practical apply of political work that constitutes the first stage in the overlap between thought and politics mentioned above, as he practiced political work in the Turkish presidency as an advisor and a foreign worker in NATO and his membership in the International Atomic Energy Agency and before all this his work as an officer in the Turkish army. Fidan also possesses the mental practice of political work through his writings and theses for obtaining master’s and doctoral degrees, and this is the second stage of the overlap between thought and politics, as Fidan combined political and mental work.

As a result of Hakan Fidan’s intelligence background and his extensive knowledge of Iraqi affairs in light of the experience accumulated through building diverse and different relationships with politicians from different Iraqi sects and bureaucratic circles, this constituted a noticeable shift towards policies that are more focused on the security dimension, heading towards curbing the threat posed by the terrorist organization PKK. With his appointment as head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on June 3, 2023, Turkish foreign policy in the Iraqi file has gained the ability to develop in different directions. During the years that Hakan Fidan led the Turkish intelligence service, he laid the foundations for bilateral relations with several effective communication channels in the Iraqi arena. It seems that he had built a good relationship with the head of the Iraqi intelligence service at the time, Mustafa Al-Kazemi. More importantly, he strengthened the bonds of close friendship with the head of the Hashd ELshabi Authority, Faleh Fayyadh, who is the real political actor in Iraq. He met with him many times in Baghdad and Ankara. Turkey also gave full confidence to the Sunni businessman Sheikh Khamis Khanjar, leader of the Azm Alliance, who emerged to the surface of Iraqi politics in recent years and became one of Turkey’s main partners, who initially allied with the leader of the EL Takddum (progress)Movement and former Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi, who formed the Sovereignty Alliance. However, this alliance collapsed after Mohammed al-Halbousi changed his political course. In terms of security and defense, Hakan Fidan achieved solid ground through foreign policy and diplomatic work The uniqueness of creating a legal outlet in agreement with the Iraqi side to protect the borders and Turkish national security by launching military operations inside Iraqi territory against the terrorist organization PKK that threatens Turkish national security, within a previous agreement with the Iraqi government that allows the Turkish army to penetrate Iraqi territory to fight the terrorist organization.

Also, the Iraqi Minister of Defense, Sheikh Thabet Muhammad Saeed Al-Aybek Al-Abbasi, had a close relationship with Hakan Fidan when he ran for the Iraqi Council of Representatives elections in 2018 within the Nineveh Our Identity coalition, which won a seat inside the Iraqi parliament. It is noteworthy that Sheikh Thabet Al-Abbasi founded the Iraqi Turkmen Salvation Front in 2017.

The Iraqi Minister of Defense, Sheikh Thabet Al-Abbasi, met with the Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, in Baghdad in August 2023.

Ammar al-Hakim

If we shed light on the Shia file in Turkish foreign policy, we find that Turkey has not marginalized any of the Shia politicians, and on every occasion it stands with the most prominent Shia leaders. On the other hand Turkey has special relations with Sheyh Ammar al-Hakim, the former head of the Supreme Islamic Council and head of the AL- Hikma Movement. In one of my television interviews with Sheyh. Ammar al-Hakim, I asked him about the Turkish role in Iraq, and he answered by saying:

Turkey represents serious policy in the region, as it is the largest economic partner of Iraq, and we look at Turkey as a strategic ally of Iraq, as there are dozens of agreements signed between Iraq and Turkey, it connects the Arabs with the West.

Thus, we find that Turkey has historical, economic and cultural relations with Iraq, as it is a large Islamic country with its status and role in the region, and the Turkish Republic is Iraq’s window to the West.

Turkey has been able to address hot issues in the region and in Iraq by adopting a wise and balanced policy. We are always in favor of strengthening bilateral relations with Turkey.

It always stands at equal distances with the spectrum of the Iraqi people.. and most importantly, Sheyh. Ammar al-Hakim said something that most Iraqis may not know, where he said:

We have a special and personal relationship with the Turks, as my wife’s mother is Turkish, meaning we have intermarriage relations with the Turks.

As for the Turkish foreign policy towards the Kurdish file in Iraq:

It is no secret that the Kurdish political arena includes the two main Kurdish parties (the KDP and PUK )

The KDP , led by Masoud Barzani, is characterized by its proximity to Turkey through economic and political ties, as the Kurdistan Democratic Party adopts a policy hostile to the terrorist organization PKK, and this policy is an important strategic line for Turkey.. In 2011, Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan went to Erbil and opened Erbil International Airport, and he was then serving as Prime Minister.. Then the visits between the two sides were repeated.

Turkey’s relationship with the PUK that led by Pavel Talabani, who is loyal to Iran, is tense due to the party’s support for the terrorist organization PKK. On many occasions, the Turkish government called on the PUK abandon its policy of supporting the terrorist organization.

Turkish foreign policy towards Iraq has been based on two main pillars since 2003.

First: The unity of Iraqi territory (geopolitical security), as Turkey considered that preserving the unity of Iraqi territory is related to its national security, and the Kirkuk issue falls within this framework.

Second: Stability in Iraq (economic security). For Ankara, the stability of Iraq is a strategic gain for the continuity of trade exchange between the two countries.

Adham Touq Demir

On July 12, 2004, an official delegation from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs headed by Ambassador Adham Tok Demir visited Kirkuk. The delegation included figures from various institutions in the Turkish government. It was the first official visit to Kirkuk after the fall of the former regime. During this visit, I was able to meet the ambassador. Adham Touq Demir in a television interview at the Kirkuk Governorate Diwan.. I asked the ambassador about the reasons for their visit to Kirkuk, and he answered saying:

Iraq is one of the important countries in the region that

Iraq is distinguished by its possession of huge human and natural resources. We also hope that the Iraqi people will live in peace and stability. Kirkuk represents a miniature Iraq that includes all nationalities and religions, and they are linked to each other by ties of kinship and neighborhood. We will also meet with all Turkmen, Kurdish, Arab and Assyrian parties, and we will visit Turkmen, Kurdish and Arab villages. We are also ready to extend a helping hand to all Iraqi brothers.

From the perspective of my journalistic and media profession, and through conducting dozens of television and press interviews with Turkish leaders, starting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, passing through the officials of the Iraqi file in the Turkish Foreign Ministry, and ending with Turkish ambassadors and diplomats inside Iraq from 2003 to 2020, I would like to respectfully present some recommendations to His Excellency the Turkish Foreign Minister, Dr. Hakan Fidan, regarding Iraqi-Turkish relations. In return, I held dozens of meetings with Iraqi leaders regarding bilateral relations between Iraq and Turkey, and within the framework of these meetings, I outline these recommendations for the Iraqi-Turkish interest.

1- Opening research and study centers on Iraqi affairs to draw up political, economic and security strategies.

2- Appointing intelligent and trustworthy advisors in Turkish missions inside Iraq who are fluent in both Arabic and Turkish.

3- Appointing electronic committees to respond to the deviant voices that appear here and there and to respond to the slander against Turkey.

4- Not relying on figures and partners from semi-intellectuals.

5- Not relying on political figures and those who have political hibernation.

6- Turkey must be careful in choosing its allied .

7- Allocating the necessary space on the TRT Arabic channel for Iraqi affairs within political programs.

The channel lacks political programs with Iraqi decision-makers and due to the importance of Iraqi-Turkish relations, a section of news and political programs must be allocated that are concerned with Iraqi affairs.

As we were in the Iraqi Turkmen Eli satellite channel, we used to produce programs and political news that specialize in Iraqi-Turkish relations within meetings with Turkish representatives and diplomats in order to bring viewpoints closer and show. Facts for Iraqis about Türkiye’s right to carry out some political or military operations and in return to hold meetings with Iraqi officials about relations between the two countries in different places, but this satellite channel now lacks such programs.

January 7, 2025
Letters by Armenian Genocide Eyewitnesses Should be Published in Several Languages

Last month, I wrote an article about the 8,000 letters that the Armenian survivors of the (Ottoman) Hamidian Massacres of the 1890s had written to Catholicos Khrimian Hayrig, describing their tragic experiences and seeking his assistance for their basic necessities of food and shelter.

This week, I came across another extremely valuable book compiled by Bedros Donabedian in 1922, titled, “The Cry of the Tormented” (Tsayn Darabelots), published in Paris in Armenian. Donabedian was an officer of the British High Commission in Constantinople between 1918 and 1922. The book contains over 300 letters written by the survivors of the Armenian Genocide during the years 1915 to 1919 describing their heart-wrenching eyewitness accounts, while the atrocities were taking place. Many of them perished after writing these letters.

Here are excerpts from some of the letters written in the midst of the Armenian Genocide:

–From Vartig Dzniguian. Garin. Feb. 6, 1919: “My soul, you ask about my brother. The poor fellow is free from this miserable world. Those who survive the troubling conditions of this evil world and depart to heaven are happier than those who are living in this world.”

–From Satenig. Der-Zor. No date: “My brother, we started marching through bloody roads, advancing toward Malatya…. Here, over 170 male adults were snatched from our ill-fated caravan and all of them were tortured to death in the presence of their own families by the order of the Kurd Bey. I am the only survivor of my family. I witnessed how one by one they were viciously killed or died from torture and hunger. I will also face the same fate…. Your miserable sister.”

–From Vartan. Erzerum. March 8, 1917: “Dear, we survived. The rest of the boys were shot; but my daughter-in-law, Khachinga, was Turkified. Should you ask me about your family members, I have no information about them. But, Ohan, Setrag and my Baghdasar were shot. If you ask about your father-in-law’s family members, all the adults were killed, but the children are alive. If you ask about Tato’s family, the adult members are killed, but the children are alive. If you ask about the Oshkers, all the adults were killed. All of Mirak’s family survived and live among the Kurds. Lern’s adult family members were killed. The rest are alive. Sako’s adult family members were killed. The rest are alive. My dear, I can’t put on paper the many tortures and difficulties we went through to survive. We stayed hungry for weeks or collected tasteless grass which we ate without salt so we would not die from hunger. For an entire year, we faced such difficulties. We were almost always hungry. We could not find barley bread to eat, until one day God opened a door for us. We came here, where the Russian authorities provide us daily with a half-ration of bread. So we live hungry and get upset. Many refugees died from hunger and cold, deprived of everything they had. The Turks thoroughly looted us, took all our money, and left us naked.”

–From Stepan Garabedian. Batum. April 6, 1917: “Brother, we have no one else with us who made it to Russia. I want you to know that I picked up two of my children; and, facing death, I marched through snow and valleys and, putting my trust in God, I survived.”

–From Sarkis. Perri. February 17, 1917: “Dear cousin, if you ask me about your family members, no one is left except Assadour’s wife who was snatched by the Turks. They shot Assadour along with my uncle…. I lost all my family members. The only survivors are my brother and I. All the rest, including the children, have perished.”

–From Mother Sofo. Erzerum. January 24, 1917: “My children, the sad news came and will tell us word for word what was witnessed. Darkness has engulfed our world. Having escaped such tortures — hungry, thirsty, barefoot — we arrived at Eriza and Erzerum with fear in our hearts. What is going to happen to the people up in the mountains, in the cold and without a bed to lie on? A black grave! The pain is strangling me. It’s difficult to write the names of the dead. I try to stay strong, but tears fall from my eyes and roll down when I remember the more than 100 young lives who died from fear and torture in front of my eyes.”

It is extremely important to locate the original copies of these most valuable eyewitness testimonies. Donabedian, in his 1922 book, mentioned two addresses: 1) Printing house: Hagop Turabian, 227 Boulevard Raspail, Paris, France; 2) Donabedian’s own address: 53 Addison Gardens, London, W. 14, UK.

Individuals or Armenian organizations in Paris or London should try to locate these archives. If the originals are discovered, they should be sent to the Armenian Genocide Museum in Yerevan.

This book was translated into English in 2015 by Dr. Garo Khachigian and edited by Mary Ellen Hewsen at the request of the Armenian Museum of Fresno. Even though the English translation is not published as a book, its contents can be downloaded from Kindle through Amazon for $9.95.

This book should be published and distributed worldwide in several languages. Besides the Armenian original and the English version, these letters have been translated into Turkish, Russian, Spanish and partly German, none of which is published.

All those interested in making a contribution towards the printing costs of this valuable book in English, can send an email to: [email protected].

January 6, 2025
Golani’s True Identity: Is This Golani Really the One We Know? Doubts and Inquiries

In recent years, developments in Syria and the Middle East, particularly regarding the identity of the leader of the terrorist group HTS (Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham), known as “Golani,” have sparked increasingly complex discussions. The identity of this person has become a subject of great importance, not only for regional political balances but also in relation to Western foreign policies and Israel’s influence in the region. Recently, doubts have been raised regarding whether the individual known as Golani could, in fact, be a former Israeli officer. These suspicions have been raised by various individuals and sources.

Who is Golani?

Golani is recognized as the leader of HTS, particularly among Syrian opposition groups and various intelligence agencies. However, in recent years, several analyses and observed events have raised serious questions about his identity. The person known as “Golani” has received significant support from the West, especially from the United States and Europe, while also adopting a rhetoric aligned with Israel, which is an unusual situation for a typical terrorist leader.

Facial Changes and Identity Manipulation: Could He Be an Israeli Officer?

Many Syrian citizens, particularly political exiles, have questioned Golani’s identity. According to these individuals, Golani’s face has noticeably changed in recent years. Several people claim that his facial features may have been altered through surgery, and some even suggest that he could be a former Israeli officer. This theory is not only common among the public but has also been circulated within some Arab intelligence circles.

Such claims, particularly when considering Golani’s apparent alignment with Israel, his support from the West, and his strategic management of HTS, raise significant doubts. The fact that these doubts are being voiced among Arabs signals the possibility of covert operations and identity manipulation, which could be common in the complex environment of Syria’s civil war. In this context, some Arab sources have suggested that Golani might have actually been killed and replaced by a look-alike figure.

Golani’s Support for Policies Aligned with the West

Another significant aspect of this discussion is Golani’s alignment with Western policies and the support he has received from Western countries. HTS has been an active player in the Syrian civil war since 2011, but under Golani’s leadership, the group has adopted a more cooperative stance with the West. Most of the terrorist groups in Syria are either supported by the West or are in a complex relationship with it. However, Golani has managed to secure both support from the West and has shown a striking lack of hostility towards Israel. This is unusual for a figure of his profile.

Under Golani’s leadership, HTS has managed to maintain regional control in northern Syria and has positioned itself in a way that serves the interests of Western powers. This is highly unusual because most terrorist groups are opposed by the West, yet Golani has cooperated with Western powers and aligned his military strategies with Western interests.

The $10 Million Reward and Talks with Israel

One particularly notable development is the $10 million reward placed on Golani’s head. Such rewards are typically issued for prominent terrorist leaders, but Golani’s policies, particularly his alignment with the West and the diplomatic meetings he has held with Israel, suggest that this reward may have been placed for other strategic reasons. These types of rewards can be issued not only for terrorist activities but also for figures who play a crucial role in regional power dynamics.

Golani’s video conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in particular, is a development that could have deep implications for the region. This direct communication does not merely place Golani at the level of a terrorist leader; it also opens doors for regional cooperation. Such a meeting strengthens the suspicion that Golani may be serving Israel’s interests, leading to the possibility that he is not just an extremist leader but potentially a key figure in an Israeli-backed project.

Golani’s True Identity: Is He Really a Radical and a Terrorist, or Is He a Manipulated Figure?

The inquiries into Golani’s identity go beyond his role in the Syrian civil war; they also concern his strategic moves on the regional and international stage. At the heart of these inquiries is the critical question: is Golani truly a terrorist leader, or has his identity been manipulated, and a new figure been placed in his role?

In the Arab world today, such theories are no longer seen merely as conspiracy theories but are increasingly taken seriously. Golani’s cooperation with Israel, his support from the West, and his success in managing HTS strategically all create serious doubts about his true identity and motives.

In conclusion, the suspicions raised about Golani’s identity require a deeper investigation and inquiry. The political developments in the region, intelligence reports, and public opinions could provide important clues to Golani’s real identity. If Golani has indeed been replaced by another figure (and this could also be true for other high-profile figures in the region), it would have profound consequences not just for Syria, but for the entire Middle East.

Thus, thoroughly examining the suspicions surrounding Golani’s identity is critical not only for understanding Syria’s civil war but also for accurately assessing the broader power dynamics in the Middle East.

Sources:

Books and Academic Studies:
1. Lynch, M. (2016). The New Arab Wars: Uprisings and Anarchy in the Middle East. PublicAffairs.
• Provides a general overview of the Syrian civil war and the new war dynamics in the Middle East, offering insights into the rise of groups like HTS and their leaders, such as Golani.
2. Lister, C. (2016). The Syrian Jihad: Al-Qaeda, the Islamic State, and the Evolution of an Insurgency. Oxford University Press.
• An academic study examining the development of jihadist movements in Syria and the historical background of HTS, including Golani’s leadership.
3. Haddad, B. (2018). The Hizbullah Phenomenon: Politics and Communication. Palgrave Macmillan.
• Investigates Hezbollah’s political and military influence while also providing information on other groups in the Syrian civil war, including HTS.
4. Mabry, D. (2017). Syria’s Civil War and the Legacy of Authoritarian Rule. Routledge.
• Discusses the roots and consequences of the Syrian civil war, touching on the societal and political factors that allowed figures like Golani to emerge.

Articles and Reports:
1. International Crisis Group (2019). “The Evolution of the HTS: From Al-Qaeda to a Pragmatic Political Player.”
• A report analyzing HTS’s ideological and strategic evolution, highlighting its relationship with Western and Israeli powers under Golani’s leadership.
2. Baker, S. (2020). “The Changing Role of Israel in the Syrian Conflict: A Focus on the Golan Heights”. Middle East Journal of Politics.
• Discusses HTS’s relations with Israel and its strategic goals in Syria.
3. Fisk, R. (2017). “Syria’s War: The Clash of Powers”. The Independent.
• Provides an analysis of the role of international powers in Syria’s civil war and the position of Golani within these dynamics.

Intelligence and Security Reports:
1. CIA, Mossad, and MI6’s Counterterrorism Policies in the Middle East—Reports on Syria and HTS.
• These reports, often not publicly available, provide critical insights into Golani’s relationships with Western powers and his strategic decision-making.
2. RAND Corporation (2019). Al-Qaeda and Its Affiliates in the Middle East.
• Analyzes the strategic objectives of Al-Qaeda-linked groups, offering insights into HTS and its connections to the West.

News Sources and Interviews:
1. Al Jazeera (2018). “The Man Behind HTS: The Rise of Golani.”
• A documentary and article profiling the rise of Golani and his ideological background and regional political connections.
2. The New York Times (2020). “The Syrian Conflict: Golani’s Leadership of HTS and International Relations.”
• An article discussing Golani’s leadership of HTS and the group’s international relations, particularly with the West and Israel.
3. BBC (2019). “Is HTS an Ally of the West? The Unlikely Relationships of Golani.”
• A BBC investigation into Golani’s relationships with the West and Israel.
4. Middle East Eye (2020). “Was Golani Killed? The Mystery of the HTS Leader’s Death and Replacement.”
• News coverage exploring the possibility that Golani was killed and replaced by someone else.

Monitoring and Strategic Analyses:
1. Institute for the Study of War (2020). “The Future of HTS in Syria.”
• A comprehensive analysis of HTS’s future and Golani’s role in shaping the group’s strategies and international relations.
2. Friedman, G. (2019). The Coming Anarchy: Shifting Alliances in the Middle East. Stratfor.
• An analysis of shifting geopolitical alliances in the Middle East, with a focus on Golani’s and HTS’s strategic moves.
3. Gordon, M. (2017). The Middle East: A Brief History of the Last 2000 Years. Oxford University Press.
• Provides historical context for understanding the role of Syrian and other Arab terrorist groups in the region.

Various Video and Digital Media Sources:
1. “Inside Syria: The War for the Golan Heights” – Documentary. (2019).
• A documentary explaining the Syrian civil war and Golani’s roleand his international relations, providing crucial data about his identity and connections.
2. The Guardian’s The Syria Files (2020).
• This digital source includes articles and investigative pieces that delve into the key figures in Syria’s civil war, especially Golani, and analyzes his relationships, power struggles, and his position within international politics.

Studies on Identity Manipulation and Facial Reconstruction:
1. Goffman, E. (1959). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Doubleday.
• A classic work on identity and image manipulation, which can offer useful insights into how Golani’s identity might have been altered or staged, providing a theoretical framework for understanding potential identity changes.
2. Simmons, B. (2015). Shifting Identities in the War on Terror. Routledge.
• This book discusses how terrorist leaders’ identities can be manipulated, including the use of facial surgeries and the operational use of fabricated identities in the war on terror.

January 1, 2025
A World Without Dishonest Leaders Lacking Morality and Character: A Wish for Happiness, Peace, and Harmony for All Mankind in the New Year

As we enter a new year, many people around the world are filled with hope and desire for a more peaceful, healthier, and happier world. However, in today’s world, shaped by global politics and societies, the presence of leaders who lack morality and character, who are deceitful, self-serving, and manipulate their societies for personal gain, stands as a major obstacle to this desire. Presidents, prime ministers, international leaders, and other power holders often deceive their people in pursuit of their own interests, fostering tension instead of peace, and conflict instead of harmony. Moreover, the decisions shaped by the influence of intelligence chiefs, oil and pharmaceutical lobbies, and other global powers lead to great injustices and inequalities worldwide. In this article, we will discuss how global peace, harmony, and prosperity can only be achieved in a world shaped by leaders who embrace honesty and human values, and how living in a world without dishonest, morally bankrupt leaders is immensely valuable for all of humanity.

The Impact of Leaders Lacking Morality and Character on Societies

Many globally recognized leaders mislead their people both verbally and through their actions, often for their own personal gain. The behavior of these leaders not only harms their own societies but also has negative consequences for all of humanity. World peace, international relations, trade, migration, and environmental issues are all shaped by the decisions of such leaders. Today, the values of justice, equality, and human rights have been replaced by egoistic and self-serving motivations such as “being powerful” and “maintaining control.”

For example, when a leader fails to keep promises made to their people, it erodes the trust that people have in their leaders. Societies lose their trust in each other, and this loss of trust leads to conflicts and tensions, not only within a country but also on the international stage. Furthermore, these leaders, rather than telling the truth, mislead their people with false information. As a result, misinformed societies are created, and this becomes a major threat to the entire world.

The Moral and Ethical Responsibilities of Leaders

A leader’s primary responsibility is to consider the needs of their society and strive for justice and equality. They must act with consideration not only for political power but also for human rights and ethical values. The power and influence that come with leadership must be used for the greater good of the people, not for individual gain.

Dishonest, self-serving, and morally bankrupt leaders harm their people and create chaos globally. These leaders deepen social inequalities, increase poverty, ignore environmental disasters, and create constant tension between nations. If these leaders were replaced by honest leaders who govern with love, respect, and justice for their people, the world could become a much healthier and more peaceful place.

A World Without Dishonest Leaders: Happiness, Peace, and Harmony

A world without dishonest leaders would, in many ways, be a healthier and more peaceful place. These leaders would be replaced by those who act with justice and honesty, leading their people with love and empathy. In such a world, people could trust one another and live in peace and prosperity.

The peace of societies depends on the fulfillment of ethical and moral responsibilities by their leaders. Proper information, transparency, fair governance, and respect for human rights are the elements that will ensure that not just one country, but all nations can live together in peace and health. When a leader is honest with their people, it lays the foundation for peace in that country. Similarly, in international relations, honest and ethical leaders are more successful in resolving tensions between nations and finding effective solutions to global problems.

However, it is not only the leaders’ ethics and honesty that matter. Policies influenced by major economic lobbies such as the oil, arms, and pharmaceutical industries are obstacles to creating a fairer and more sustainable world. These lobbies prioritize economic gain over the health and well-being of societies. Imagine a world where these lobbies lose their influence, where self-serving games cease, and everyone lives in prosperity under equal conditions. In such a world, the people of the world could live together in brotherhood, experiencing true peace and harmony.

A New World is Possible

As we approach a new year, people around the world dream of a happier, more peaceful, and healthier life. However, this is only possible if leaders act sincerely and honestly. A world free of dishonest, morally bankrupt leaders, intelligence chiefs, and the influence of the oil and pharmaceutical lobbies is a world that belongs to every human being. If these powers were to be replaced by leaders who prioritize people, justice, and honesty, the world could become a more peaceful and harmonious place.

This is not just a utopia but a goal that humanity can reach. The world can become a better place for every individual. However, for this to happen, leaders must return to their consciences and moral responsibilities. The new year could be the beginning of this change. A world where all people share the same dream of peace, brotherhood, and justice is possible.

A New Year and Hope for the Future: A Struggle for Peace, Justice, and Brotherhood

A new year is not just a change in the calendar, but a significant turning point for humanity’s future. Today, the world is more interconnected than ever, yet this interconnectedness is often built on mutual interests, competition, and selfishness. The dominance of deceitful and self-serving leaders, large economic lobbies, and systems based on power structures hinders the peaceful, just, and harmonious world dreamed of by millions of people. However, the increasing societal awareness of these issues offers a hopeful light on the path to creating a more just world.

This hope grows not only through the sincerity and honesty of leaders but also through the efforts of individuals who bring these values into their own lives. In both our societies and on a global scale, honesty, transparency, equality, and respect for human rights should be our guiding principles. Real change is not solely dependent on government decisions or international leaders’ actions; it is also shaped by the small but meaningful steps taken by each individual. By standing against injustice, rejecting lies and manipulation, we can all contribute to the building of a world of peace and harmony.

Individual Responsibility and Societal Change

True change begins with every individual fulfilling their own moral responsibilities. Just as we expect leaders to fulfill their ethical duties, it is also important for the public to take an ethical stand. As individuals, we must fulfill our societal responsibility by being transparent, honest, and just in our interactions with others. The small changes we make in our own lives can, when combined, transform into a major societal change.

Social progress in areas such as education, culture, art, and science can foster understanding, tolerance, and respect among people. This is necessary not only for individuals but also for entire societies to live together in peace. Reforms in education can help create societal structures that strengthen human rights and justice.

Cooperation and Global Solidarity: Moving the World Forward Together

When it comes to global issues, leaders and the international community must work together to find solutions. Wars, poverty, massacres, ethnic cleansing, genocides, sexual violence and abuse against women and children, environmental disasters, climate change, and migrant crises are all shared issues that concern not just one country, but all of humanity. Sensitivity and cooperation in addressing these problems are the responsibility not only of national governments but also of international organizations, civil society, and every individual.

Today, cooperation between countries has become even more important. Organizations like the United Nations play a critical role in promoting world peace, reducing economic inequality, and protecting human rights. At the same time, this global cooperation must be fostered not just between elites and leaders, but also among the people. Cultural, social, and economic solidarity between the people of the world will increase our efforts to understand and help one another.

The Dream of a New World: A Future of Justice, Equality, and Peace

Our hope for the future is possible not only through our individual efforts but also through deep-rooted changes in global cooperation and leadership. Justice, equality, and peace are not abstract concepts; they are values that must take tangible form in every aspect of life. When these values dominate, not only will peace reign across the world, but the prosperity of all people will follow.

Imagine a world where major economic interests such as oil and pharmaceuticals do not threaten people’s health and the future of the planet, but instead are used to ensure that everyone can live under equal conditions. Resources are distributed not for greed or selfishness, but for the benefit of all. Such a world will guarantee both the present and the future, initiating the brightest period in human history.

Stronger Together: A New Year for All of Us

The new year is not just a change in the calendar, but a time to take on greater responsibility for humanity. We all share the responsibility to create a world where peace, justice, and equality prevail. By fulfilling this responsibility, we can make not only our own lives but the entire world a better place.

In the face of global challenges, it is essential to act together, show greater solidarity, and strive to understand one another. A future where every individual takes responsibility will bring peace and harmony closer, and justice and equality will be more accessible.

As we stand on the threshold of the new year, I believe that we can start this change together and wish peace, brotherhood, and happiness to all people around the world. Let us work together for a world where dishonest, self-serving leaders, intelligence chiefs, and the influence of the oil and pharmaceutical industries are no longer present, and where everyone can live a happy and peaceful life under equal conditions.

A new year is not just a beginning, but an opportunity to transform the world into a more just, peaceful, and harmonious place. Together, we can make this change happen.

May the newyear bring peace, brotherhood, and unity to all of humanity. I wish for a world free from the influence of deceitful and self-serving leaders, intelligence chiefs, and the economic pressures of the oil and pharmaceutical industries. A world where justice, equality, and peace prevail, and everyone can live a happy and harmonious life under equal conditions.

Together, let’s embrace the responsibility to create a better world. Let us work towards a future of cooperation, mutual understanding, and respect, where every individual contributes to the greater good. Only then can we hope to build a world of true peace, prosperity, and solidarity.

May the coming year be the beginning of this change, not only for ourselves but for all of humanity. A year of collective action, where every one of us plays a part in shaping a more just, equitable, and peaceful future.

Happy New Year to all people around the world. Let us face the future with hope, courage, and determination to make this world a better place for all.

May the new year bring you peace, health, and happiness, and may we all work together for a brighter, fairer future.

With brotherhood, friendship, and hope,
By Sefa Yürükel

January 1, 2025