Both countries are pretty close to being economic basket cases. Turkey is already embroiled in a seemingly endless conflict in Syria where, on occasion, their own allies give them a bloody nose. Although Turkey has the largest army in the neighborhood and third or fourth in the world, the country is a potential powder keg due to ethnic rivalries. Frankly, I am amazed they haven’t collapsed in civil war already. The US should abandon Incirlik, where we rent space from Turkey. The risks of getting drawn into a conflict is too great to justify the advantages of having an airbase close to Syria.
Egypt is at least closer to Libya with easier lines of supply.
I think what Egypt and Turkey perceive is at stake is which country will lead the Arab world? Egypt, Turkey or Iran? What none of them seem to realize is, there is no monolithic Arab world to lead. It would be a job of herding cats with an air horn.
What’s at risk here is the fragile peace the US has mentored for decades. I think it’s time to pull out, allow them to sort it out for themselves, then go back when they have something we want to buy. For the first time since WWII America’s oil independence allows us to do that.
We need to support Egypt’s el-Sissi over Turkey scumbag Erdogen.
Turkey isn’t a ‘close U.S. ally’
Ahhhhh...
Mamelukes vs Ottomans, Round 4.
Excellent news!