The Foreign Policy of the National Salvation Party in Turkey

Jasem Mohammed, Atheer; Mousa, Azza Mohammed

doi:10.37653/juah.2023.137353.1129

	The Foreign Policy of the National Salvation Party in Turkey
Journal of University of Anbar for Humanities
Volume 2025, Issue 3, September 2025, Pages 1040-1075 PDF (4.57 M)
Document Type: Research Paper
DOI: 10.37653/juah.2023.137353.1129
Authors
Atheer Jasem Mohammed^* ¹; Azza Mohammed Mousa^* ²
¹University of Anbar – University Presidency
²Al Jazeera University- Al-Hasahisa ‎
Abstract
Aims: This study explores the rise of the National Salvation Party (MSP) in Turkey during the early 1970s as a significant development in the country’s modern political history. It focuses on the party’s religious orientation, its interpretation of secularism, and its role in shaping Turkish foreign policy. Special attention is given to the MSP’s stance on Arab and regional issues, including the Jerusalem question and the wars of 1967 and 1973, as well as its influence on Iraqi-Turkish relations and domestic political debates. Methodology: The research employed a descriptive-analytical method, examining historical documents and political sources related to the MSP. It analyzed the party’s positions on regional and international developments, including its policies toward Arab countries, NATO membership, accession to the European Common Market, and the Cyprus issue. The study also evaluated the party’s influence on both Turkish domestic and foreign policy. Results: Findings reveal that the MSP held a unique position in Turkish politics by advocating a religious perspective while simultaneously upholding secular principles. The party’s strong support for the Palestinian cause, particularly regarding Jerusalem, shaped Turkey’s relations with Arab states and strengthened its regional role. Domestically, the MSP influenced debates on Turkey’s Western alliances and regional policies, contributing to shifts in public opinion and government strategy. Its outlook also facilitated closer Iraqi-Turkish ties, reflecting its Islamic and Arab-oriented vision. Conclusion: The National Salvation Party represented a pivotal moment in Turkey’s modern political evolution, balancing religious identity with secular frameworks while exerting considerable influence on regional diplomacy and domestic politics. By championing the Palestinian cause and fostering ties with Arab countries, the party positioned Turkey as an active player in Middle Eastern affairs. At the same time, its internal positions on NATO, the European Common Market, and Cyprus reflected its ability to shape national debate. Studying the MSP not only provides insight into the dynamics of Turkish politics in the 1970s but also highlights the enduring influence of religious and nationalist movements on the trajectory of Turkey’s political and foreign policy development. Recommendations: The study recommends further examination of the impact of nationalist and religious-oriented parties in Turkey, particularly regarding their influence on Arab and regional issues, in order to better understand their role in shaping both domestic and foreign policy.
Keywords
The Foreign Policy; the National Salvation Party; Turkey

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