We’re delighted to welcome Yalman, our dedicated correspondent in Kirkuk, to the Turkish Forum family.
Your dedication to bringing the voices and perspectives of the Turkmen people to our readers is truly invaluable. We are grateful for your courage, professionalism, and the vital work you do.
We’re honored to share his work and look forward to the rich contributions he will continue to make to Turkish Forum
bagdad university -college of arts- English DEP 1984
➢ High School Ma. Preparatory stage- MOUSUL UNİVERSİTY 2018
Media experience
I started media work in 1982 through my work as a translator at Baghdad Radio, the Turkmen section. I have been appointed in the Public Corporation for Radio and Television under the title of Announcer on the Permanent Owner from 1994 to the end of 2002. I worked in the field of translation and translated many books into Arabic, Turkish, English. After 2003, I worked as the news director for Turkmen Eli satellite channel from April 2003 to May 2007, then I took over the management of Turkmen Eli satellite channel as general manager until the year 2020 in September. During my working in TURKMAN ELI TV I did more than 700 television interviews with iraqi, Araps and foreigners politicians, presidents and foreign diplomats I present lectures in media colleges in Arab countries and Iraq, especially at the University of Kirkuk about the writing of news. I participated in international visitors in USA that arranged by USA foreign ministry in 2006 as presentative of Iraq with 14 Arap countries. I take position in Iraq neighbors conference in Egypt sharm el-shyh. I was correspondent of los angels times in 2004-2005 in Kirkuk . I wrote articles in Arabic and Turkish in newspapers and websites on political, literary and media topics.
Syndicates & Association Memberships 1- Member of Iraqi announcers association 2001 2- Association of radio and TV 1999 3- Iraqi journalist syndicate 2003 4- Iraqi translators association 1984 5- Iraqi authors and litterateurs union 1999.
DEGREE and DIPLOMAED 1- Degree of honorary doctorate from union of middle east of France in Iraqi media 2- 100 most effective characters in media
WORKS and BOOKS
1-Iraq after globalism discussing by politician 2-Modrn Turkish media 3-Translion the novel kill Henry kissinger
Syria’s Collapse and the Resurgence of Türkiye: A Critical Turning Point in Middle Eastern Geopolitics.
The Syrian conflict is rapidly reaching a breaking point, with Bashar al-Assad’s administration teetering on the brink of collapse. The Assad regime, already a shadow of its former self, faces an existential crisis compounded by growing internal dissent, economic devastation, and increasing isolation. As Syria falls apart, the region’s geopolitical landscape is being reshaped, and Türkiye has emerged as a decisive player whose role cannot be ignored.
Türkiye’s Strategic Pushback Against Terrorism Türkiye’s unyielding stance on its national security has redefined the dynamics in northern Syria and Iraq . Through military operations and its strategic alliance with the Syrian National Army (SNA), Türkiye has neutralized the influence of the CIA backed PKK and its affiliates, the PYD and YPG, which Ankara sees as direct threats to its sovereignty. The Turkish government has been unequivocal: it will not tolerate the establishment of a terrorist PKK PYG YPG group -controlled autonomous region along its border, particularly one backed by the CIA and supported by the same terrorist groups the U.S. and EU have officially designated as such. It should be clearly noted Turkiye has never had a problem with Kurds . Turkiyes number one enemy is the CIA backed PKK, YPG and PYD.
This determination has not only thwarted PKK/ YPG ambitions but has also showcased Türkiye’s ability to reshape the power lines in Syria. According to certain news outlets, Türkiye’s military presence in northern Syria remains vital, ensuring that these groups cannot create a land-grab-style movement that threatens regional stability.
The United States’ Misstep What is most astonishing in this geopolitical chess game is the United States’ decision to align itself with terrorist organizations that they have labeled as terrorist ( During Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing on combating ISIS, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) questions Secretary Carter and General Dunford on the U.S. military strategy in working with terrorist PKK and PYG )
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLiVjIv9fdc&t=31s like the PKK and YPG instead of leveraging its NATO ally, Türkiye, the second-largest military power within the alliance. This miscalculation has not only strained U.S.-Türkiye relations but has also weakened Washington’s strategic influence in the Middle East.
The Obama and Biden administrations’ decision to support the Kurdish Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, controlled by PYG, PYD/PKK elements, represents a failure to prioritize long-term strategic alliances over short-term expediencies. As many news out lets aptly highlights, Türkiye’s resurgence has rewritten the rules of power in the region, pushing back against Iranian and Russian influence while exposing the U.S.’s flawed approach. For 24 years I have said in many of my speeches at Bowling Green Falg raisings “ Indeed, it would be impossible to view Turkiye s geo-graphic situation as anything but strategic , Only a peaceful, stronger, democratic, and secular Turkiye at the table can legitimize U.S and western policies & soft power in the region.”
Let’s look at the Winners and Losers
In the chaos of Syria, Türkiye and Israel have emerged as unlikely beneficiaries. Israel views Türkiye’s role as a linchpin in Syria positively, as it disrupts the “Shiite Crescent” that stretches from Tehran to Beirut. By cutting this axis in half, Türkiye has indirectly bolstered Israel’s security interests. Is why we saw on November 22, 2024 of Israeli, Internal Security Agency Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar immediately flies to Türkiye underscores an essential truth: Türkiye’s role is indispensable to achieving meaningful progress in the Middle East.
On the other hand, the resistance axis—comprising Assad, Tehran, and Hezbollah—has suffered significant setbacks. With Türkiye controlling key security zones in northern Syria, the balance of power has shifted, further isolating Assad and diminishing Iran’s foothold in the region.
Türkiye: The Key to Stability Türkiye has consistently stated its commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity, yet its actions have been driven by an unshakable resolve to secure its borders. The Atlantic Council underscores that Türkiye’s military operations are not about territorial ambitions but about ensuring its national security. Türkiye’s presence in northern Syria has not only contained terrorist groups but also prevented Iran and Russia from consolidating power in the region.
This is a clear message: without Türkiye at the table, no viable solution in Syria is possible. Türkiye’s actions have demonstrated that it is the indispensable actor in the region, capable of balancing competing interests while prioritizing its own security and national interests.
A Wake-Up Call for Washington The U.S. must recognize that its relationship with Türkiye is pivotal to achieving long-term stability in the Middle East. While the damage done under the Obama and Biden administrations cannot be undone overnight, there is room for a recalibrated approach. Under a potential Trump White House, Washington must shift its focus from grand resets to pragmatic cooperation with its NATO ally.
Türkiye’s secular governance, military strength, and strategic location make it an invaluable partner for the U.S. Moving forward, Washington should prioritize rebuilding trust with Ankara by addressing Türkiye’s security concerns and fostering meaningful collaboration on shared goals.
Conclusion Türkiye’s resurgence has not only pushed back against the PKK/YPG , Russia and Iran but has also reshaped the geopolitical calculus in Syria and Iraq . As the Assad regime collapses , the importance of Türkiye as a stabilizing force and a counterweight to Iranian and Russian ambitions cannot be overstated. The U.S. and Israel must realign its policies, recognizing Türkiye’s critical role in the region, and work towards a future where this indispensable NATO ally is given the respect and partnership it deserves.
I visited Turkey about 3–4 months ago. Landed in Ataturk airport. Passport control, a long long line where most of people from different nationalities were waiting to get through. Some got rejected upon the arrival, apparently they had to pay a fee and some other issues which made me absolute nervous about what’s about to happen! European citizens been rejected for some reasons and for me, an Iraninan passport holder…our father in heaven, even though I haven’t been a good son, just this one time please.
“Passport, please!”. Now let me get this straight that up to that time I’ve had loads of experiences on passing passport control. Most of the time, border officers take more time on checking my passport. Sometimes they go through all the pages, ask loads of questions and etc. These officers didn’t even look at my face for more than a second or two or they didn’t ask any questions whatsoever regarding to my travel plan or anything else. They stamped the passport and said: “Welcome to Turkey!”. They even answered my question regarding to which border I have to reach out to go to Gerogia and whether I need to leave the country a day before the 90 days visa or it’s alright if I leave on the last day.
Big smile on face, ready to collect my Backpack…disaster! My Deuter backpack was ripped off thanks to AirAstana! I asked an officer to help me reach to AirAstana or relative authorities to file a report regarding to my ripped off backpack!
My bad, I left the airport because I followed a wrong direction and when I got back, the information called for someone. A Turkish woman’s reaching to me. “Hello this is …, I’m sorry for what happened. Please, follow me.” Well, at least they’re polite, one of many things to dig to see when you enter a country. Long story, short they said even though I left the airport, they helped me file a report, and God they were polite.
Trying to catch the train from airport and I realise I don’t have small changes at all. I see some officer, dude they looked scary I tell you that. I ask some people and they seem like they don’t understand me, so I reach out to the officers and one of them ask me to follow her. She reach out to a small kiosk where they refused to give me small change first time I asked them, but then they changed a 50 lira note to smaller notes. I thank them all and get myself a card. Later on, I realised its not that cheap to travel around the town so, waste of time changing the money.
Next day, I arrive at my host’s house. Named Ali, a good looking lawyer in his mid 40. He invited me for dinner with his family, spent a great deal of time with them. Learnt so much about what’s really going on in Turkey from a well educated man. You then can realise what medias can do to a country, anyhow…not the main topic in here. They were absolutely lovely. Unfortunately, he had to go for a trip after my second day of stay, but he left me his keys!!! Unbelievable!! He left his house keys to a stranger from Couchsurfing. One of many things that you do not see at all.
The other days, walking in Bazzar, it’s enough if they catch your eyes direction on tea. You can’t get away from there without drinking at least 2 cups of tea. One guy even invited me and my wife for Baghlava. Hospitality, 10 out of 10. These stories can go on and on. I once catched a wrong ferry, and a girl on board guided me on how to deal with somehow Istanbul confusing ferries routes. And, she used her card for me to get pass through the gate when I wanted to go back to where I got on board the first time. Apparently, students get some sort of discount for public transportations. Interacting with polices, I reached one of Prince Islands and two police men gave me a ride to a campsite called madam Martha when they saw I was carrying a heavy bag. They didn’t even ask me to show them my passport or anything. Brilliant!
84 days of stay in Turkey. Istanbul, Bodrum, Antalya, Ankara, Samsun. Spent most of our -I and my wife- time with locals from different backgrounds, Turks, Syrian, and Kurds. They welcomed us to their houses, picked us up when we were pointing our fingers toward the road, and showed us the true face of Turkey and its people.
Sure, we had bad experiences too, but we mostly had good experiences. So, answering your question, I alone and many other people from Iran, at least those who seek for a deeper understanding of the people, and it’s culture, send our love to the people of Turkey. Thank you for the amazing time.
Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Israel, and others. However, it is important to note that opinions on this matter can vary, and different countries and entities may have different perspectives on the classification of Hamas.
Some people such as Turkish president Erdogan have the opposite opinion. Turkish president Erdogan said that Hamas is not a terrorist organization.
Some people agree that Hamas is not just a terrorist organization, but far worse and too big to be labeled as terrorists. They believe that they are a political party that also has its own military and enforcement.
The foot soldiers are trained radicals who blindly follow their billionaire leaders.
Britain in Palestine 1917-1948 investigates the contradictory promises and actions which defined British Mandatory rule in Palestine and laid the groundwork for the Nakba (the catastrophe) and the creation of the state of Israel in 1948. The roots of the contemporary social, political, economic, and environmental landscape of Palestine and Israel can be traced back to this period, making it essential viewing for understanding Britain’s legacy in the region and the situation on the ground today.
To access English, Arabic and Hebrew subtitles click on the CC link on the video. For further analysis of the events outlined in the film see the Companion Guide to Britain in Palestine 1917-1948.
Reviews
“A very useful explanation of how we got to where we are today. Fascinating photos I had not seen before. A great resource to show in any classroom or forum to people who want to learn more about this region, and specifically, Britain’s involvement. Afif Safieh, Former Palestinian Ambassador
“…This film brilliantly puts into perspective the role the United Kingdom played in Mandate Palestine from 1917-1948.” Rabbi Howard Finkelstein, Ontario, Canada
“This is an excellent short 18-min video from @BalfourProject explaining briefly but super-clearly how British colonialism has caused a century of war in Palestine.” Matthew Teller, Journalist and author of Nine Quarters of Jerusalem: A New Biography of the Old City (2022)
“Britain in Palestine 1917 – 1948 is a clear, precise and factual explanation of the historical origins of the Arab-Israeli conflict. For anyone who wants to develop a real understanding of the issue but is intimidated by it’s complexity, this film is the place to start.” Judah Passow, Photojournalist
A group of 50 senior leading European Rabbis have signed a joint letter condemning the leaders of Armenia for using holocaust rhetoric in its campaign against its neighbor, Azerbaijan.
RABBINICAL CENTRE OF EUROPE RCE B.S.D. Brussels, September 6, 2023
Mr. Yitzhak Herzog, President of the State of Israel, Jerusalem, ISRAEL
Dear Mr. President,
As rabbis serving the Jewish communities across the European continent, we are writing to you following interviews given by senior Armenian government officials in the international media on matters related to the political conflict with the government of Azerbaijan. They employed the language and comparisons that are appropriate solely to describe the deliberate, systematic and largest genocide in the history of mankind, which the Jewish people have been subjected to: The Holocaust.
During WWII the Jewish people were persecuted, murdered, butchered, burned, tortured, drowned and buried alive. The Holocaust was not limited to a single place but occurred throughout almost the entire European continent and with the collaboration of too many nations.
Such words as “ghetto”, “genocide”, “Holocaust” and the like in no uncertain terms inappropriate to be part of the jargon used in any kind of political disagreement. Usage of these terms belittles the terrible suffering experienced by the Holocaust victims and the entire Jewish people, which still bears the indescribable pain of the largest tragedy ever experienced by a single group. We call upon you to explicitly and unequivocally clarify to the Government of Armenia and all other countries that they should recognize and respect the terrible human suffering endured by the Jewish. We urge you to make them aware that the practice of minimizing and downplaying the suffering of the Jewish people for furthering any political agenda through the continued use of Holocaust-related phrases should be ceased immediately and completely.
