An Important Power Factor for Türkiye in the Eastern Mediterranean: Iskenderun Port and its Strategic Importance

Abstract

The factors contributing to the strategic significance of a port can be comprehended by assessing its military, political, and economic capabilities. Accordingly, this study aims to determine and examine the strategic significance of Iskenderun port and its benefits to the Turkish Navy. To systematically comprehend and impartially assess the benefits and strategic significance of the port, other naval powers in the region are also examined. Based on an analysis of historical documents and secondary sources, argued this study that the Iskenderun port has the potential to act as a deterrent and give the Turkish Navy a psychological advantage in terms of controlling the sea and intervening in events in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Iskenderun Bay’s’ geographical advantages pose significant challenges for potential threats against the Turkish Navy and hinder the intelligence collecting efforts of hostile groups. It is important to emphasizes that Iskenderun port will allow for the ability to intervene in incidents using a reduced military presence inwith the context of force projection.

Keywords

• naval strategy
• naval ports
• cyprus
• cold war
• deterrence