Turkish Forum

Category: USA

Turkey could be America’s most important regional ally, above Iraq, even above Israel, if both sides manage the relationship correctly.

  • Message to Ms Alev Wieland

    Message to Ms Alev Wieland

    Message to Ms Alev Wieland / Since the days of esteemed leaders such as Gunay Evinch and Ergun Kirlikovali

    Dear President Alev Wieland,

    As someone who cares deeply about the future of our youth and the preservation of our rich cultural heritage, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your recent election as President of the Assembly of Turkish American Associations (ATAA). Your leadership arrives at a pivotal moment, and it is already evident that your vision is both inspiring and unifying.

    Your message to the youth on May 19th, in commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day, was both powerful and timely. It conveyed a clarity of purpose and sincerity that many of us have long hoped to hear in community. For the first time in many years, I believe ATAA has truly resonated with the younger generation a remarkable and vital achievement.

    Since the days of esteemed leaders such as Gunay Evinch  and Ergun Kirlikovali  Abimler, I have not witnessed such a compelling, embracing, inclusive and forward looking message from ATAA. Under your stewardship, I am optimistic about the dawn of a new era  at ATAA one that inspires engagement, fosters unity, and empowers Turkish-American youth to carry forward the legacy of  great Mustafa Kemal Atatürk with pride and purpose.

    Your call to innovate, to learn from our past, and to embrace the unique strengths of every individual was not only a tribute to Atatürk’s vision, but a living embodiment of it. As you so eloquently stated, “The future of our organization is in your hands.” This is more than a message it is a mission of love to all who may have an opinion different then ours , and I stand ready to support it alongside you, Ms. Wieland.

    May God grant you continued wisdom, strength, and good health as you embark on this important chapter. May the enduring principles of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk continue to illuminate your path and inspire all those under your leadership.

    With my warmest regards and deepest respect,

    Respectfully,

    Ibrahim Kurtulus
    Staten Island, New York

    Dr. Demirmen’e Hizmette Mükemmellik Ödülü
  • CELEBRATING TURKIYE

    CELEBRATING TURKIYE

    CELEBRATING TURKIYE

     @ BOWLING GREEN

    WHERE NEW YORK CITY WAS FOUNDED

    THE MOST HISTORIC PLACE IN NYC

    WHERE NYC COMES TOGETHER !

    5 / 16 / 25

    LINK TO 114 PHOTOS

    “a movie of photos”

    https://tinyurl.com/y4zrwu2u

     Photos Album by

     Arthur Piccolo

    Bowling Green Association

  • Letter Responding to Congressman Gregory W. Meeks

    Letter Responding to Congressman Gregory W. Meeks

    US Congressman Gregory Meeks
    2310 Rayburn HOB
    Washington, DC  20515

    May 12, 2025 

    Re:   Rebuttal to Letter Regarding the Republic of Türkiye Dated May 7, 2025

    Dear Ranking Member Gregory W. Meeks and Esteemed Members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee,

    This letter is submitted as a formal response to the assertions and interpretations presented in your correspondence dated May 7, 2025, concerning the Republic of Türkiye. We believe it is crucial to address several points raised in your letter to provide a more comprehensive and factually grounded understanding of the matters discussed.

    Firstly, we wish to respectfully note that the official name of our nation is the Republic of Türkiye. Consistent use of this appellation aligns with international protocol and reflects due respect for our national identity.

    Regarding the Aegean airspace, your letter outlines a perspective that warrants further clarification. While Greece claims a 10-nautical-mile airspace, international law typically recognizes sovereign airspace extending to the limits of territorial waters, often 6 nautical miles. Operations by Turkish aircraft between these 6 and 10 nautical mile limits occur within what is considered international airspace. It is pertinent to note that NATO radar systems, which neutrally monitor activity in the Aegean, have not substantiated claims of violations within this international airspace. Furthermore, the increasing militarization of Greek islands, in contravention of the stipulations set forth in the 1923 Lausanne and 1947 Paris Treaties, alongside maximalist Greek maritime claims, contributes significantly to regional tensions. We maintain that resolutions to such matters can only be effectively achieved through bilateral dialogue and negotiation, rather than unilateral accusations.

    The issue of Cyprus, as presented in your letter, also necessitates a more historically contextualized understanding. The difficulties on the island did not originate in 1974. Rather, they began in 1963 with the forceful removal of Turkish Cypriots from their constitutionally guaranteed positions within the government. Türkiye’s intervention in 1974 was undertaken as a legitimate action under the 1960 Treaty of Guarantee, a multilateral agreement that provided for intervention should either the Turkish Cypriot or Greek Cypriot community face an existential threat. It is a matter of public record that Nikos Sampson, the leader of the 1974 coup, himself acknowledged that his intent was the complete elimination of Turkish Cypriots, had Türkiye not intervened. Moreover, an Athens court ruling has affirmed the legality of Türkiye’s actions. The 2004 Annan Plan referendum further illustrates the Turkish Cypriot commitment to a peaceful resolution, with 65% of Turkish Cypriots voting in favor, while 85% of Greek Cypriots rejected the plan following a public address by the Greek Cypriot leader, Mr. Papadopoulos, on April 7, 2004, urging a “resounding ‘NO’.” To characterize the 1974 intervention solely as an “invasion” overlooks the treaty basis and the compelling circumstances that necessitated it. The presence of Turkish Peace Forces on the island remains a critical element for the security and well-being of the Turkish Cypriot community, serving as a deterrent against any recurrence of past atrocities.

    Regarding political opposition and human rights, the Republic of Türkiye recognizes that, like all democratic nations, its institutions are continually evolving. Nevertheless, your letter reflects a perspective that appears selectively critical and may overlook important context. Türkiye has upheld a multi-party electoral system for over seventy years, marked by peaceful transfers of power, an active civil society, and a vibrant media sector all functioning within a challenging regional landscape shaped by persistent threats from terrorist organizations such as the PKK and ISIS. Assertions of authoritarianism frequently fail to account for the broader constitutional, legal, and security context in which judicial proceedings occur. The detention or prosecution of political figures an occurrence not exclusive to Türkiye is a reality in many democratic systems, including the United States. For instance, on May 9, 2025, the Mayor of Newark, New Jersey, Ras Baraka, was arrested at an ICE detention facility during an unannounced oversight visit with members of Congress. He faces trespassing charges, which he contests as politically motivated. This underscores the importance of evaluating such incidents through the lens of legal due process rather than presuming political persecution.

    In relation to Greece, it is noteworthy that the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has issued several judgments highlighting human rights violations within Greece. For instance, in the case of A.R.E. v. Greece (Application No. 15783/21), published on January 7, 2025, the ECHR found Greece in violation of Articles 3, 5, and 13 of the European Convention on Human Rights due to the expulsion of a Turkish national without a risk assessment or access to asylum, recognizing a “systematic practice of pushbacks” in the Evros region. Similarly, in Sh.D. and Others v. Greece and Other Countries (March 15, 2016), the ECHR ruled against Greece for the inhuman and degrading treatment of unaccompanied minors in the Idomeni refugee camp. Furthermore, in Hazisllari v. Greece (Application No. 41385/14), the Court found a violation of Article 6(1) due to the excessive length of criminal proceedings. Additionally, the ECHR has addressed restrictions on the ethnic Turkish minority in Western Thrace, particularly concerning freedom of association and expression, as well as issues related to religious rights and education. This context of ECHR rulings against Greece appears to have been omitted from your assessment.

    Your letter draws attention to legal proceedings especially to charged mayor of Istanbul imamoglu in Türkiye while seemingly overlooking comparable issues in other nations, including the United States. The cases of whistleblowers like Edward Snowden and Julian Assange, the detentions at Guantanamo Bay, and the use of extrajudicial drone strikes raise significant questions regarding democratic values. Similarly, the silence on corruption allegations against prominent figures in various Western countries suggests an inconsistency in the application of scrutiny.

    The “Blue Homeland” doctrine represents a defensive maritime strategy aimed at safeguarding Türkiye’s sovereign rights and continental shelf in the Eastern Mediterranean. As Türkiye is not a signatory to UNCLOS, it maintains its right to explore natural resources in areas where a mutually agreed legal framework does not exist. The Memorandum of Understanding with Libya is a bilateral agreement between two sovereign states. Greece’s attempts to claim extensive Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) rights based on islands near the Turkish coast are viewed as inequitable and not in accordance with customary international law.

    Regarding Hamas, President Erdoğan’s statements should be understood within the framework of regional diplomatic efforts. Türkiye has consistently advocated for a two-state solution and the protection of civilian lives. Türkiye condemned the October 7 attacks while also emphasizing the need for proportionality and the protection of innocent civilians. Türkiye’s engagement with the political wing of Hamas is a position shared by several other nations in the region and beyond. Indeed, there have been instances where Israel has sought Türkiye’s assistance in communicating with Hamas. Türkiye’s diplomatic capabilities have been demonstrated through its role in facilitating the release of hostages in the Gaza crisis, a contribution acknowledged by U.S. Ambassador Jeff Flake, and its mediation in the release of American citizen Brittney Griner in 2022. Furthermore, given Türkiye’s history of providing refuge for Jewish people for centuries, it is particularly concerning to hear accusations of antisemitism. President Erdoğan’s statements reflect Türkiye’s long-standing commitment to a just resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, grounded in a two-state solution and respect for international humanitarian law. To equate support for Palestinian human rights with “support for terrorism” is a mischaracterization. 

    Türkiye has condemned the targeting of civilians and hostage-taking while also calling for the protection of Palestinian civilians amidst military actions. The assertion that Türkiye is “antisemitic” or “anti-Zionist” disregards Türkiye’s history of tolerance, its vibrant Jewish community, and its protection of Jewish heritage. It is also worth noting the documented instances of U.S. foreign aid being directed to entities with ties to terrorist organizations like ISIS, Hezbollah, PKK and others as brought to light in Gregg Roman’s testimony before the United States Congress House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee, a matter that warrants attention looks like you missed.

    The characterization of efforts to delegitimize Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s Türkiye and its democratically elected President, including through digital platforms and non-governmental organizations, as a deliberate assault on the nation’s sovereignty is a serious concern. This sustained effort to portray Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s Türkiye negatively undermines its rightful standing on the global stage.

    Regarding the S-400 and F-35 issue, it is important to recall that Türkiye’s acquisition of the S-400 system occurred after a decade of the U.S.’s refusal to sell the Patriot missile system. Türkiye’s subsequent removal from the F-35 program, despite its financial and industrial contributions, was a measure that has impacted NATO’s southern flank. It is also relevant that other NATO members operate Russian-made S-300 systems, and that countries like India utilize the S-400 while receiving F-35s and other weaponry from the U.S., suggesting a double standard. The recent indications that the U.S. is encouraging Türkiye to rejoin the F-35 partnership underscore Türkiye’s crucial role within the defense supply chain and the NATO alliance, as noted by Ambassador Flake. Allegations of authoritarianism in Türkiye often overlook the country’s multi-party democracy, regular elections, active media, and strong civil society. Security measures taken after the 2016 coup attempt, orchestrated by the FETÖ terrorist organization which US is harboring its entire group , were implemented to safeguard the National Interest and Security of the republic. Perhaps you missed it But radial Islamism was stop in Turkiye. 

    The arrests of certain political figures must be understood within the legal framework of Turkish law and the available evidence under due process. Also, despite my unwavering commitment to freedom of the press and over 38 years of advocacy, I find it deeply concerning that not a single opinion piece highlighting the strategic importance of Türkiye a secular, Western-aligned NATO ally that stood alongside the United States in Korea and continues to oppose terrorism and global instability has been published in any major national newspaper in the United States. This raises a critical question: where is the true freedom of speech? It seems only those who criticize Türkiye are afforded the opportunity to be heard, while voices that emphasize its value and longstanding partnership with the West remain silenced and has NO right.

    Your portrayal of Türkiye’s efforts against the terrorist PKK also requires a more accurate understanding. For centuries, individuals of Kurdish background have lived peacefully in Anatolia. The PKK, recognized as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the EU, has exploited regional instability to pursue its separatist agenda. The Turkish government has consistently implemented economic and social reforms in the southeastern region, and Kurds are well-represented across all sectors of Turkish society. Broadcasting and education in Kurdish are now permitted. The PKK is a terrorist organization, akin to ISIS, Al-Qaeda, or Hezbollah, and the narrative suggesting otherwise is outdated. The PKK is losing support within the region. Türkiye is an indispensable NATO ally, possessing the alliance’s second-largest standing army and securing its southern flank. Türkiye’s diverse diplomatic engagements are not contradictory to its NATO commitments but reflect the complexities of the current global landscape.

    In conclusion, I  believe the primary challenge lies not with Türkiye, but with potentially biased narratives and a limited strategic perspective. Undermining Türkiye weakens NATO. We respectfully urge you to adopt a more balanced viewpoint, respect Türkiye’s sovereignty, and engage in constructive dialogue. It is concerning if certain perspectives within Congress are driven by a desire to misrepresent Türkiye, possibly influenced by external factors that prioritize other national interests over the alliance’s cohesion and factual accuracy. Such biases can be detrimental to American interests. As members of Congress, we believe your efforts should be directed towards objectivity and serving the broader interests of the United States, rather than agendas that may inadvertently undermine opportunities for enhanced security, economic growth, and geopolitical stability. These campaigns against Türkiye serve to delegitimize the Turkish state and its people. I implore you to move beyond such biases and acknowledge the vital role Türkiye plays. Misinformation campaigns will not weaken the ties between the U.S. and Türkiye, which are rooted in mutual respect and strategic necessity.

    Respectfully,

    Ibrahim Kurtulus

    Community Activist

  • Response to US Based Communist Newspaper

    Response to US Based Communist Newspaper

    Workers Vanguard
    Liz Gorden -Director of Party Publication 
    Michael Davisson -Editor
    Cairo Turner – Assistant Editor 
    299 Broadway Suite 1618
    New York, NY 1007 
    May 5, 2025 

    Rebuttal to “Öcalan, Rojava: No to the Betrayal!” – A Dangerous Distortion of Truth and History

    To Editors,

    I write to express deep concern and firm objection to your article dated April 3, 2025, titled “Öcalan, Rojava: No to the Betrayal!”—a publication that grossly distorts historical facts, overlooks acts of terrorism, and engages in a broader campaign to delegitimize the Republic of Türkiye and its national security efforts. First, it is important to note that the country’s name is no longer “Turkey,” but officially “Türkiye,” as recognized by the United Nations. Continued refusal to use this name reflects a lack of basic journalistic respect toward the will of the Turkish people and government.

    The narrative advanced in your article dangerously whitewashes the role of the PKK terrorist and its Syrian affiliate, the YPG, both of which are internationally recognized terrorist organizations. Since 1984, the PKK has been responsible for the deaths of more than 45,000 individuals many of them innocent civilians, including women, children, teachers, many Kurds and doctors. This fact is not conjecture but a matter of record supported by the United States, the European Union, and many transatlantic institutions all of which have officially designated the PKK as a terrorist organization.

    The PKK and YPG: Terrorism, Not Liberation, your romanticized portrayal of Abdullah Öcalan and the so-called “Rojava revolution” completely omits the violent and extremist foundations of the PKK and YPG. These groups are not freedom fighters; they are terrorist factions who have resorted to narcotics trafficking, human and children smuggling, the sexual exploitation of young girls, boys  and women, and organized violence to fund and further their objectives.

    These are not characteristics of democratic movements but hallmarks of transnational terrorism.

    The PKK’s Syrian wing, the YPG, shares the same strategic leadership and ideological alignment. The link between the two is not a Turkish fabrication it is a matter of documented intelligence. In June 2016, the Turkish Armed Forces recovered U.S. made anti-tank missiles in the hands of PKK fighters during operations near the Syrian border, confirming the transfer of Western supplied arms from the YPG to the PKK. This development has put Türkiye  under direct threat by weapons funded by the American taxpayer.

    How is it justifiable that U.S. and EU forces would support, arm, and legitimize a terrorist organization like the PKK/YPG, which seeks to create an ethnically exclusive state carved from the sovereign territory of Türkiye? Would the United States tolerate such a force on its southern border with Mexico? Would Israel remain passive if faced with cross-border attacks from a militant group in Lebanon? Are you a supporter of baby killers  and Terrorist  Ms. Liz Gorden, Mr. Michael Davisson, are you Ms. Cairo Turner?

    The Smear Campaign Against Türkiye, your communist newspaper article attempts to conflate Türkiye’s anti-terrorism operations with an attack on the Kurdish identity a misleading and irresponsible narrative. For more than 1000 years, Kurds and Turks  have lived in peaceful coexistence on the Anatolian peninsula. Today, Turkish citizens of Kurdish origin serve as ministers, judges, members of parliament, generals, and even as past presidents and prime ministers. There is no ethnic apartheid in Türkiye only a determined response to violent separatism masquerading as Kurdish representation.

    To paint Türkiye as an enemy of the Kurds is not only inaccurate but malicious. The Republic of Türkiye has invested billions in its southeastern regions where Kurds predominantly live, launching major infrastructure and social programs such as the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP). Kurdish language instruction, cultural expression, and media are freely allowed. There is no state imposed limitation on Kurdish identity or culture only on those who weaponize it for extremist political purposes. Your communist paper has become another weapon in the international campaign to de-legitimize the Turkish state and the Turkish people.

    Just incase you missed  the PKK/YPG  No Different Than ISIS or Al-Qaeda, November 17th ,ASALA, ETA (Euskadi Ta Askatasuna) , Atomwaffen Division (U.S./Germany), The Base (U.S.), Revolutionary Cells (Germany) if not worst. The PKK and its affiliates have used the post-Gulf War instability and the Syrian Civil War to further their separatist agenda through violence. Much like ISIS or Al-Qaeda or all above, the PKK seeks to undermine sovereign states by force, exploiting ethnic grievances and the chaos of war. Öcalan’s vision lauded in your article is one of militant Marxism, enforced ethnic purity, and the dismemberment of Türkiye which looks like your paper supports. That vision has no place in a democratic, pluralistic, and sovereign world order.

    Even Amnesty International, not known for pro-government leanings, has documented human rights abuses and war crimes committed by the YPG/PKK in Syria, including forced displacement and recruitment of child soldiers. That your publication elevates such actors to the status of “revolutionaries” is not only revisionist, it is morally bankrupt.

    Turkiye Under Siege, let us not forget that Türkiye has stood shoulder to shoulder with the United States and the west through the Cold War, the Korean War, Kosova Etc., and countless joint military operations. American soldiers who served alongside Turkish forces in Korea can attest to the courage and commitment of our alliance. Yet today, some in the West are quick to forget this history, preferring to valorize terrorist entities under the false pretext of “liberation movements.”

    The use of the Kurdish issue as a political weapon against Türkiye is a cynical and dangerous campaign that only benefits those who seek to destabilize the region Iranian proxies, extremist groups, and arms traffickers among them. It does not serve the interests of peace or regional stability. Nor does it serve the interests of American or European taxpayers whose governments are being misled into funding such movements. Who are you funded by ? or by which group or country are you all funded by? 

    Let me be very clear, the Republic of Türkiye is not fighting Kurds; it is fighting terrorists. I urge your editorial board to reconsider the platform it provides to apologists of terrorism and to correct the misleading narrative that undermines a Turkiyes legitimate security concerns. In a region beset by chaos, Türkiye remains a pillar of stability and a reliable partner in the war against extremism.

    The American tax payers deserves to know: why is their government arming a terrorist group with taxpayer money is what you should be writing about, while turning its back on a proven democratic ally?

    Respectfully,

    Ibrahim Kurtulus 

    Community Activist 

  • A Letter To the Editors of The New York Times

    A Letter To the Editors of The New York Times

    The New York Times
    Joseph Kahn – Editor-in-Chief  
    Kathleen Kingsbury – Opinion Editor
    Patrick Healy – Deputy Opinion Editor
    Thomas Feyer – Letters Editor
    Joseph Kahn – Executive Editor
    Binyamin Appelbaum – Editorial Board Member

    Opinion Department
    620 Eighth Avenue
    New York, NY 10018
    USA​

    April 30, 2025 

    To the Editors of The New York Times:

    The recent editorial targeting President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the Republic of Türkiye reflects a persistent and ideologically driven narrative that distorts the realities of Türkiye’s democratic evolution and its role as a pivotal regional and NATO actor. This framing, cloaked in the language of liberal internationalism, is neither objective journalism nor principled critique—it is a selective indictment that ignores both context and complexity.

    At the heart of the editorial’s mischaracterization lies an obstinate refusal to recognize Türkiye as a functioning multiparty democracy. Contrary to the New York Times’ assertions, Türkiye holds regular, competitive elections monitored by respected international institutions, including the OSCE. President Erdoğan has consistently secured electoral victories through transparent and legitimate processes. To question the validity of these results is to not only undermine the Turkish electorate’s will but to insult the foundational democratic principle of popular sovereignty. Such condescension betrays a troubling double standard when compared to how contested electoral processes in Western countries are framed.

    The editorial’s comparison of Türkiye with autocratic regimes such as Russia is both analytically flawed and geopolitically reckless. Türkiye’s political environment is not a monolith—it includes diverse and vocal opposition parties, freely elected mayors, and a parliament that has repeatedly demonstrated its autonomy. The victory of opposition candidate Ekrem İmamoğlu in Istanbul, even after a court-ordered electoral rerun, is proof of the system’s resilience and internal checks.

    Legal proceedings against political figures must be evaluated through the lens of due process, not through prejudiced assumptions. The Republic of Türkiye operates under a constitutional framework that provides judicial independence and accountability. The case of Mayor İmamoğlu, like all others, is subject to the rule of law and independent judicial review. To assume political motivations without substantive evidence mirrors the very bias the editorial purports to condemn.

    Indeed, the United States—whose own democracy has faced numerous constitutional and civil liberties challenges—would do well to avoid projecting its inconsistencies onto others. Only last week, 97-year-old Federal Circuit Court Judge Pauline Newman was forcibly removed from her chambers without full due process, raising serious concerns about judicial dignity. Immigration enforcement agents continue to detain individuals across major American cities, often without warrants. Such developments should prompt introspection, not distraction through foreign finger-pointing.

    Meanwhile, Western nations, including EU member states, have engaged in press censorship, police crackdowns on peaceful demonstrators, and judicial harassment of journalists—yet such abuses receive scant scrutiny from The New York Times. Why, then, this disproportionate focus on Türkiye? What interest does The New York Times serve in meddling with the internal affairs of a sovereign country to which it pays no taxes, whose language it barely speaks, and whose culture it has not endeavored to understand in full? How many of its editorial contributors have lived in Türkiye for two decades or more?

    The continued depiction of Turkish politics as a clash between “Islamism” and “authoritarianism” is intellectually lazy and culturally reductionist. It simplifies a complex, modern, and evolving society into a binary unworthy of serious journalism. Under President Erdoğan’s leadership, Türkiye has ended military tutelage, empowered the ballot box, and brought unprecedented stability to civilian governance. If opposition movements are to win the hearts of the electorate, they must do so through engagement, not defamation.

    Assertions suggesting a drift toward “Islamist extremism” in Türkiye are inaccurate and inciteful. Türkiye maintains its status as a secular republic dedicated to pluralism, international cooperation, and the protection of human rights.   The nation’s stances on regional conflicts, particularly within the Middle East, stem from valid strategic and humanitarian considerations, not extremist ideologies. To characterize these positions as rigid dogma undermines constructive dialogue. This issue has regrettably become a tool in an international effort to delegitimize the Turkish state and its people.  

    Mr. or Ms  Editor, it is noteworthy that the presence of more liberal social customs in Türkiye, such as women being topless on certain beaches, particularly in tourist areas, and the prevalence of modern attire in cosmopolitan districts of Istanbul like Caddebostan, Bebek, Nişantaşı, and Bağdat Caddesi, underscore the secular nature of the republic. These observations, reflecting the separation of state and religion enshrined in the constitution and the freedom of lifestyle choices within legal boundaries, directly contradict claims of a drift toward “Islamist extremism” by illustrating the diverse and secular fabric of Turkish society.

    You motive is very clear it’s a smear campaign across the world against Turkiye.

    Similarly, Türkiye’s foreign policy is neither erratic nor destabilizing. It is independent, strategic, and often facilitative of peace—most notably in mediating grain export agreements amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Such diplomacy should be acknowledged, not ignored.

    For example, even Time Magazine noted during the Istanbul mayoral election rerun that “while Erdoğan may continue to reach for Putin-like powers, Turkey is not Russia.

    Even American voices outside the mainstream echo chamber have recognized this truth. The American Conservative, in its April 29, 2025 edition, wrote: “The Turkish question will continue to vex Europe, especially post-American retrenchment. Turkey is too big and too important geographically to keep out of European balance. It shows a growing appetite to provide order, to push for political settlements and new equilibria in the historic lands it ruled for centuries.” This recognition of Türkiye’s rising influence is conspicuously absent from The New York Times’ editorial pages.

    On national security, Türkiye has a right—indeed, an obligation—to defend its borders and citizens. Operations in Syria target the PKK and YPG, organizations internationally recognized as terrorist entities. The continued Western support for such groups undermines NATO solidarity and sows’ distrust among allies. No sovereign nation would tolerate armed threats along its frontier, and Türkiye is no exception. Furthermore, as NATO’s second-largest standing army, Türkiye anchors the alliance’s southern flank. Efforts to marginalize Türkiye through editorial campaigns weaken collective security and embolden hostile actors. Constructive engagement, not coercion, has historically yielded better results in Turkish-Western relations.

    Domestically, the critique of Türkiye’s judicial actions as politically motivated lacks introspective parity. Consider the United States’ pursuit of Edward Snowden, the decades-long detention of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay without trial, and the charges faced by former President Donald Trump. Are these instances evidence of a failed democracy, or do they reflect a legal system grappling with complex national security and political questions? If the latter is accepted for the U.S., the same consideration must be afforded to Türkiye.

    Selective outrage betrays a larger problem the politicization of democratic values. Press freedom, civil liberties, and rule of law must be defended universally, not selectively applied to target disfavored governments. The disproportionate focus on Türkiye, to the exclusion of other countries with far more restrictive regimes, signals not principled advocacy but agenda-driven criticism.

    Even the refusal to adopt Türkiye’s official name the Republic of Türkiye is emblematic of a deeper problem. Names are not trivial; they are expressions of sovereignty and identity. Türkiye’s formal request to be called by its rightful name deserves the same respect afforded to other nations. That The New York Times resists even this basic diplomatic courtesy speaks volumes.

    In conclusion, Türkiye is not a rogue actor, a theocratic outlier, or an authoritarian state in disguise. It is a sovereign nation with a dynamic democracy, an indispensable ally, and a rising regional force. Its people deserve engagement, not derision; partnership, not paternalism.

    It is time for the West and particularly institutions like The New York Times to move beyond outdated paradigms and embrace a more honest, principled, and balanced relationship with the Republic of Türkiye. Demonization is not diplomacy, and editorial bias is not advocacy.

    Respectfully,

    Ibrahim Kurtulus 

    Community Activist 

  • Letter to New York Turkish Consulate General Lost on 1 Ave and 46 street

    Letter to New York Turkish Consulate General Lost on 1 Ave and 46 street

    Ambassador / Consul General M. Ahmet Yazal
    Turkish House 
    821 United Nations 5th floor
    New York, NY 10017 

    April 27,  2025 

    Subject: Deep Concern Regarding Lack of Representation at Mrs. Aynur Erim’s Funeral

    Dear Ambassador M. Ahmet Yazal,

    Today, we gathered with deep sorrow to bid farewell to Mrs. Aynur Erim, a woman widely regarded as the “Mother of the Turkish-American Community.” As the devoted wife of Dr. Ata Erim, the Erim family has dedicated over fifty years to strengthening the unity, representation, and interests of Turkish-Americans in the United States.

    Since my earliest childhood, I have personally witnessed Dr. Ata Erim’s tireless efforts  from organizing parades and educational events to advocating on behalf of our community at all levels. Even today, at the remarkable age of 94, Dr. Erim continues his commitment, directly and indirectly, to our collective cause.

    It is with a profound sense of sadness — and candidly, disbelief — that I must express my disappointment that no representative from the Turkish Consulate General in New York attended Mrs. Erim’s funeral. Despite there being multiple Consuls and their families assigned to New York, not a single diplomat was designated to represent our nation on this solemn day.

    Moreover, since I personally notified the  Turkish Consulate General in New York  on Friday afternoon of Mrs. Erim’s passing, it is deeply troubling that not even a condolence phone call was made to Dr. Erim or his family over the ensuing days. This absence of direct engagement is, respectfully, unacceptable.

    While the Diyanet Imam who presided over the funeral graciously conveyed condolences on your behalf, with all due respect, an imam is not a diplomat representing the Turkish Consulate General of New York . The lifelong contributions of the Erim family to our community merited the direct presence and acknowledgment of our official representatives.

    Regrettably, this marks the second such instance within recent months. Earlier this year, following the death of a highly decorated Turkish Korean War veteran, there was once again a noticeable absence of engagement from the Consulate General. I was particularly saddened to learn that you were reportedly informed of the veteran’s passing several days after the initial notification.

    Mr. Ambassador, with all due respect, I ask sincerely: why was no Consul delegated to attend Mrs. Erim’s funeral? How is it possible that, even after 3 days, no direct communication with Dr. Ata Erim was made? These omissions are profoundly disheartening to our community and raise serious concerns regarding the current approach to community relations.

    The Turkish-American community looks to our diplomatic mission not only for leadership but for solidarity, especially during times of mourning. We respectfully urge greater attention, engagement, and responsiveness moving forward.

    I remain, as always, a devoted member of the Turkish-American community and a firm supporter of the Republic of Türkiye. My intention here is solely to express a heartfelt concern shared by many who witnessed today’s absents of a Turkish Diplomat at a very important Turkish American families funnel. Just so sad ! 

    Respectfully, Ibrahim Kurtulus