BY MARCO VICENZINO
HURRIYET DAILY NEWS- The recent violence off the coast of Gaza clearly marked a defining moment in world public opinion. The Israel-Palestinian conundrum, and specifically the plight of Gaza, has now become fully internationalized. With the death of Turkish citizens, it is no longer business as usual for all parties concerned, and the stakes have risen exponentially for the region and beyond.
All along, Turkey has been skillfully filling the void left by other regional players. The process has been accelerated by adeptly exploiting their misfortunes and mistakes. The recent crisis is just one example. It has proven a diplomatic bonanza for the government of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan at home and abroad. In nearly 24 hours, it was able to get the UN Security Council to officially condemn the acts resulting from Israel's operation. This provides further evidence of its growing ability to exert influence internationally.
Turkey has clearly demonstrated a willingness to pursue its interests vigorously, assert them publicly and risk confrontation if necessary. It has no qualms about shedding diplomatic-speak. The days of the compliant NATO ally who performed as respectfully requested are over. In less than a month, the Erdogan government has dominated global headlines twice. It first thumbed its nose at the major powers on the Iran nuclear issue and now its current performance has further entrenched its role as a power to be reckoned with.
Contrary to some views, this is not a reversion to imperial Ottoman times. In recent years, Turkey has deftly pursued an independent-minded foreign policy. It has carefully crafted an image as a benign, and not hegemonic, power in its region. Its expansion is not led by soldiers but shrewd businessmen. By investing and creating local opportunities, their presence is generally appreciated. Consequently, Turkey's role as a respected regional power has grown exponentially.
The violence off the coast of Gaza was a reminder that Turkey cannot be taken for granted nor the loss of its citizens taken lightly. It also put the final nail in the coffin over Turkey's historic strategic partnership with Israel dating back to the Cold War. Ankara applied last rites with its explicitly frank statements during the crisis. It even threatened to sever diplomatic ties with Israel if its citizens were not immediately released from detention.
All along, Turkey's historic growth was inevitable, particularly when considering its physical size and population. The main question was when Turkey would fulfill its natural leadership role in the region. Its time has arrived. Now it must proceed responsibly.