During the time when India and Pakistan were engaged in attacks and counterattacks, most countries appeared neutral in the conflict. However, Turkey openly stood in support of Pakistan, while Israel was seen siding with India.
Nevertheless, after the announcement of a ceasefire, Turkey welcomed the decision and stated that both countries should take this opportunity to engage in direct and constructive dialogue. India had claimed that Pakistan was using Turkish drones for attacks, while on the other hand, Pakistan claimed that India was carrying out attacks using Israeli drones.
Last Thursday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that the people of Pakistan were like his “brothers” and said he was praying to God for them. Amid ongoing India–Pakistan tensions, a Turkish Air Force C-130 jet landed in Pakistan last week. However, Turkey claimed that the plane went only for refueling purposes. In addition, a Turkish warship also docked at the Karachi port last week, which Turkey presented as a gesture of goodwill.
India accused Pakistan of using 300 to 400 Turkish drones to launch attacks in various Indian cities last Thursday.
This situation also reflects the strained relationship between India and Turkey, highlighted by the fact that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not visited Turkey since becoming Prime Minister.
Ideological Affinity
According to Talmiz Ahmad, former Indian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Turkey shares an ideological affinity with Pakistan based on Islam. Furthermore, during the Cold War, both Turkey and Pakistan were allies of the United States. The security cooperation between these two countries has historically been strong. Many Pakistani generals have had personal ties with Turkey. At present, defense cooperation between the two nations has significantly increased, he claims.
He says, “I believe Erdoğan is further strengthening the long-standing relationship with Pakistan. Erdoğan presents himself as an Islamist leader and prioritizes issues related to Islam. He frequently raises the Kashmir issue and portrays it as an Islamic concern. Turkey has clearly shown that it stands with Pakistan.”
According to Talmiz, there are two major powers in the Middle East—Turkey stands fully with Pakistan, while Israel supports India. The influence of Islam on Turkey–Pakistan relations has grown even stronger after Erdoğan came to power.
