Navigating the International Power Struggle: A Comparative Study of Türkiye, Germany, and Iran

Abstract

This article provides a comparative analysis of the foreign policies of Türkiye, Germany, and Iran with regard to the changing global political landscape. While all three countries have endeavored to safeguard their national interests through a balance of power strategy, Türkiye has emerged as a more assertive actor in this regard. Türkiye has benefited from the rising influence of Asia and growing competition with the West, while Iran has faced challenges from US sanctions and Germany's balance of power approach has been tested by the conflict in Ukraine. Utilizing economic, foreign policy, and military spending data, this article elucidates how these actors respond to global shifts to carve their independent spheres. Ultimately, the article posits that Türkiye has made greater strides in expanding the scope of its foreign policy compared to Germany and Iran over the past two decades.