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Kuwaiti analyst : Türkiye’s historical depth makes it more welcome in Syria

Kuwaiti strategic thinker Abdullah Al-Nafisi with 360 Al Jazeera, October 16, 2025. ( Photo via 360 Aljazera )
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Kuwaiti strategic thinker Abdullah Al-Nafisi with 360 Al Jazeera, October 16, 2025. ( Photo via 360 Aljazera )
By Newsroom
October 21, 2025 04:33 PM GMT+03:00

Kuwaiti strategic thinker Abdullah Al-Nafisi praised Türkiye’s “successful and practical project” in the region, noting that Ankara has shown wisdom and clarity in its handling of Arab affairs—particularly in dealing with Syria.

Al-Nafisi, in an interview with Al Jazeera, noted that the Middle East is currently witnessing a phase of “comprehensive re-engineering” amid the sweeping geopolitical transformations reshaping the region in the aftermath of the Gaza war.

He stressed that these developments are not merely local or regional in nature, but form part of a broader global shift toward a multipolar world order.

Kuwaiti strategic thinker Abdullah Al-Nafisi with Al Jazeera, October 16, 2025. ( Photo via Al Jazeera)
Kuwaiti strategic thinker Abdullah Al-Nafisi with Al Jazeera, October 16, 2025. ( Photo via Al Jazeera)

150 Million Documents from the Ottoman Empire

Al-Nafisi highlighted the historical depth of Türkiye’s presence in the region, noting that the Ottoman Empire ruled much of the Middle East for nearly four centuries behind an immense trove of historical records.

According to him, the Ottoman archives contain around 150 million documents that chronicle the political, social, and demographic composition of the region — including detailed information about its minorities and local communities.

This, Al-Nafisi argued, has provided the Turks with a profound and enduring understanding of the Middle East and its complex dynamics.

He added that this historical knowledge allows Ankara to engage with Arab countries “without recklessness.”

He noted that Turkish officials — particularly Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan — demonstrate “intellectual maturity, composure, and deliberation” in their decision-making.

A constructive Ottoman imprint on Syria

According to Al-Nafisi, Türkiye now views Syria as “a field for a Turkish project” supported by the country’s new administration. He stressed that the Ottoman legacy in Syria was largely constructive.

“They built mosques, schools, clinics, and roads, and maintained security — they were not a repressive force like the Iranians,” he said.

“For that reason,” he continued, “there are strong indications that Syrians today welcome Türkiye’s presence, as their historical experience with the Ottomans was positive and encouraging.

"I believe the Turkish project will have a promising future in the region,” he said.

Cultural and philosophical depth is needed

Discussing what he called “the intellectual dimension,” Al-Nafisi argued that what is lacking in the Turkish strategy is a parallel cultural and philosophical depth.

“They are practical people — administrators and soldiers — but they need to strengthen their intellectual arsenal, especially in engaging with the Arab world. Nevertheless, it seems that the Turks are moving in that direction; they are always prepared.”

Al-Nafisi concluded by warning that “the Zionist eye is now fixed on both Türkiye and Iran,” suggesting that both countries have become focal points in the shifting regional power balance.

October 21, 2025 04:40 PM GMT+03:00
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