Whose Side Is Turkey On? – with Jonathan Schanzer

Whose Side Is Turkey On? – with Jonathan Schanzer

Author: Boundless Israel, Inc. June 9, 2025 Duration: 24:28
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Turkey is a longtime NATO ally, yet it increasingly aligns itself with anti-Western forces—from cozying up to Iran to providing political support for Hamas. Under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey has become an unpredictable and assertive player in the Middle East, raising urgent questions about its strategic direction and alliances.

In this episode, Aviva Klompas speaks with Dr. Jonathan Schanzer, a leading expert on Turkey, political Islam, and regional geopolitics. Together, they explore Erdogan’s ambitions, the evolving U.S.-Turkey relationship, Ankara’s ties with Hamas and Tehran, and what all of this means for Israel, the West, and the balance of power in the region.

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Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

Guest Bio:

Dr. Jonathan Schanzer is Executive Director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, where he oversees the organization’s research and policy work. A former terrorism finance analyst at the U.S. Treasury, Jonathan has tracked and disrupted funding networks for groups like Hamas and al-Qaeda. He’s authored several books on the Middle East, including Gaza Conflict 2021, State of Failure, and Hamas vs. Fatah. A frequent congressional witness and media commentator, his analysis appears regularly in major outlets including CNN, Fox News, and the BBC.


In a world of endless takes and heated debates, finding clarity on issues facing Israel, antisemitism, and American Jewish life can feel overwhelming. Boundless Insights-with Aviva Klompas cuts through the noise with thoughtful, in-depth conversations designed to empower rather than just inform. This isn't about surface-level opinions; it's about engaging with the complex perspectives and difficult questions that define these critical topics. Each episode of the podcast brings you closer to understanding the nuances often lost in broader commentary, fostering a space for genuine dialogue. You'll hear discussions that are as substantive as they are accessible, moving from historical context to contemporary challenges. The goal is to provide listeners with a trusted resource-a place to find not just information, but the tools for deeper reflection. Tune in for a podcast that values thoughtful exploration over easy answers, all aimed at making sense of a complicated landscape.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 152

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