BY SAMI KOHEN
Turkey's image and credibility have been shaken in Washington, Sami Kohen, a columnist of the Milliyet daily, affirms in his article.
In than editorial published in today's edition of Milliyet daily, Kohen writes, ''the United States is no more considering Turkey 'as its old loyal ally'. The question 'how much the United States can trust Turkey' is often asked by congressmen, analysts dealing with Turkey and the press, even though it is not asked by the administration.''
Kohen continues as follows: ''Americans don't consider correct the use of terms like 'crisis' and 'tension' in Turkey to define the current situation of relations, but they accept that there are some serious 'disturbances'.''
''The reasons of concerns about relations with Turkey in ''interested'' and ''well-informed'' circles in Washington are as follows: 1-Anti-Americanism that spread in Turkey: Aggression targeting Washington in Turkey exceeds the limits of criticism and is provoking and affects (bilateral) relations.
2-Ankara's policies: Policies pursued by Turkish government in recent days particularly regarding regional matters seem to cause concerns and disappointment in Washington. The recent development in this context is related to Syria.
The Americans think that 'Iraq factor' had a leading role in the increase of anti-Americanism in Turkey.
On the other hand, Washington's view is considered as close to that of Turkey regarding Kirkuk matter; i.e. the status of this city can't be changed (by the Kurds) by force.''