Turkey’s Intervention in Libya: Evaluating the Crisis and Consequences of the Decision

Abdulrahman Al-Fawwaz, Abdallah S. Abualkanam

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the reasons for and consequences of Turkey's involvement in the Libyan crisis, including its probable gains since the intervention in September 2019. The findings of this study establish that, following Turkey's declaration to support the government of Libya, Turkish forces thwarted the threat posed by Khalifa Haftar’s forces and ensured that the government under the leadership of Fayez Serraj remains in power. Although the gains may not be great, Turkey has made progress in supporting the Libyan government against any overthrow. This accomplishment reflects Turkey's geopolitical and economic interests despite their position otherwise. This paper discusses the probable future position of Turkey in the Libyan conflict. It also provides insight into how countries become involved in foreign crises to protect their interests for non-justifiable reasons.

 

Keywords: Turkey, Libya, crisis, intervention, foreign policy.


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