The Northern Front

A quiet military alliance between Turks, Americans and Israelis has been an important force for regional stability in the Middle East over the last decade. However, in part due to the growth of democracy in Turkey, there is now uncertainty as to the loyalty of the Turks to the alliance, especially when it comes to discussions of a Turkish role in a possible US-led coalition against Iraq. William Safire says here that there is no consensus amongst Turks about whether their country should support the overthrow of Saddam Hussein. Even Turkey's prime minister seems to want a way out of backing the US. But Turkey should think of its long-term interests, Safire argues, and fall in on the side of the world's sole superpower. – YaleGlobal