THE EARLY PHOENIX
September 4, 2024
★ TURKIYE
Turkish Political Group Attack Two American Soldiers in Izmir
In Izmir, Turkey, members of the Turkish Youth Union, a political group tied to the National Opposition Party, attacked two American soldiers in civilian clothes. The soldiers had just arrived from a U.S. base and were heading to a hotel. The attackers placed bags over their heads, reminiscent of a 2003 incident in Iraq involving Turkish soldiers. They justified the attack by accusing the soldiers of having “Palestinian blood on their hands” due to U.S. involvement in the Gaza conflict. Turkish authorities quickly arrested the attackers, but tensions between Turkey and the U.S. remain strained.
Turkish Intelligence Arrests Kosovan Allegedly Managing Mossad’s Financial Network
Turkish intelligence arrested a Kosovan national, Liridon Rexhepi, alleging he is the Mossad financial network manager in Turkiye. Rexhepi is accused of transferring funds to Mossad agents for intelligence operations. The Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT) detected suspicious transactions involving numerous Western Union transfers to Mossad operatives. Rexhepi allegedly entered Turkiye on August 25, 2024, and was arrested in Istanbul five days later. During interrogation, Rexhepi reportedly admitted to managing these transactions, with MIT revealing Mossad agents using Eastern Europe and cryptocurrency for transfers.
Turkiye Arrests 119 Suspected ISIS Members in Major Operation
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the arrest of 119 suspected ISIS members during the ‘Gürz-10’ operation spanning 23 provinces. The five-day coordinated effort involved police and counter-terrorism units, reflecting Turkey’s sustained commitment to eliminating terrorism within its borders. Additionally, seven Syrian nationals were detained in Izmir for alleged ISIS ties. In a related operation, Istanbul’s counter-terrorism forces captured an ISIS member who had entered Turkey illegally from Syria and was planning an attack.
Turkiye’s Diplomacy Met With 621,000 Captagon Pills From Assad
Turkiye confirmed willingness to discuss troops from Syria. Turkish intelligence officials already held discussions with the Assad regime on refugee returns and anti-terrorism measures. The Assad regime still insists on a clear plan for the final withdrawal of Turkish forces before normalizing relations with Ankara. Russia’s Foreign Minister Lavrov announced upcoming meetings with Iran, Turkiye, and Assad regime representatives, scheduled for the near future. Despite Turkiye’s efforts to normalize relations with the Assad regime, Turkish authorities foiled a major drug smuggling operation through Assad-controlled Syrian territories after a two-month investigation. Turkish intelligence, alongside local military factions in northern Syria, arrested 26 members of a drug trafficking gang. Authorities seized 621,000 Captagon pills, 50 kilograms of hashish, and 208 grams of methamphetamine during the operation.
Erdogan Highlights Turkish Military Successes And Commitment To Jerusalem
Turkiye’s strategic regional influence continues to expand despite historical tensions with the Turkish leader. President Erdogan during a speech at the National Defense University highlighted the Turkish military field successes in Syria, northern Iraq, Libya, and Somalia. He, as always, stressed Turkiye’s unwavering commitment to Palestine’s Jerusalem.
Turkiye’s Steel Dome Superior Alternative, Vital for National Security
Turkiye’s increasing regional autonomy and ambition to compete in the global defense market was highlighted by Erdogan’s “Steel Dome” announcement. This advanced air defense system demonstrates Turkiye’s efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and reduce reliance on Western technologies. The “Steel Dome” mirrors Israel’s “Iron Dome,” but Turkey aims for greater sophistication by integrating radar, AI, and advanced communication systems. President Erdogan stated that the “Steel Dome” would be a superior alternative to current defense systems, vital for Turkiye’s security.
Turkiye’s Trade Growth Overshadowed by 51.4% Inflation Crisis
Turkiye’s economic successes in trade and energy agreements are overshadowed by persistent inflation, high interest rates, and market volatility. The country faces the challenge of balancing inflation control while maintaining growth and financial stability. Exports grew significantly, leading the G20 in services export growth, and the trade deficit decreased by 43.4%. Energy deals with Shell and ExxonMobil strengthened energy security, yet inflation, driven by the lira’s depreciation, sits at 51.4%. The Borsa Istanbul index dropped by 8.2% in August. Foreign capital outflows and corporate profit declines add to economic uncertainty.
Turkiye Seeks BRICS Over EU Stalls, NATO Tensions, Economic Gains
Turkiye has officially applied to join BRICS, seeking to expand its global influence and relations beyond Western allies. President Erdoğan’s government sees the world shifting toward a multipolar system, pursuing stronger ties outside advanced economies. Turkiye applied after frustration with stalled EU membership talks and disagreements with NATO, particularly over Russia relations. BRICS includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, recently adding Iran, UAE, Ethiopia, and Egypt. China, aiming to increase its global power, has led the BRICS expansion by courting countries aligned with the U.S.
Türkiye Intensifies PKK Operations, Destroying Targets in Iraq and Syria
Turkey eliminated 17 PKK terrorists in Iraq and Syria, while airstrikes destroyed 20 PKK targets in northern Iraq. The operations focused on PKK bases and neutralized several militants. President Erdoğan emphasized closing the security loop on the PKK, which remains a significant threat, especially near the Turkish border. Turkey’s recent military cooperation with Iraq also strengthens their joint efforts against Kurdish separatists.
==================
Previous Reports:
Militarized Foreign Policy and Diplomatic Maneuvering Define Türkiye’s Power Surge
