Navigating under pressure

The latest crisis in relations between Athens and Ankara is different from previous ones. It is broader in scope, it has a hegemonic dimension, and it is permeated by an imperial rather than - as in the past - nationalist attitude.

The fullest expression of this new dogma is probably encapsulated in a recent statement by Turkey's Defense Minister Hulusi Akar. "People say that geography is destiny. In our case, the destiny of the region depends on Turkey. I believe that the US should realize this and prioritize Turkey as its primary regional ally," he said.

The starting point of Akar's statement is that the situation in the region is chaotic. And, as a result, there is need for a hegemonic power to restore an order that has been upset by the failed military interventions carried out by the West in Arab countries and the gradual withdrawal of America from the region.