Can the Islamic Republic of Iran become the Turkish Republic of Iran? This issue is widely discussed on social media. There are also claims that such an initiative has great support in Tabriz. Discussing the future of Iran based on the Turkish Republic model is one of the topics that can affect the geopolitical architecture of the Middle East. If such ideas, which are claimed to have been voiced in Tabriz, gain political support, a new situation may arise in terms of statehood and regional power balance.
Iran's Turkish history has deep roots. From the Safavids to the Qajars, dynasties of Turkish origin played a governing role in the political history of this state. Even today, a large Turkish population lives in the country. Unofficial sources indicate that the number of Turks in Iran is close to 50 million.
How such a change will be met by foreign powers is also an important aspect of the issue.
For Russia, the main issue may be how a possible change will affect Moscow's regional interests. An Iran that emphasizes its Turkish identity and expands strategic integration with the Turkic world can limit Russia's influence in the South Caucasus. In such a scenario, it is expected that Moscow will try both to adapt to the new reality and to protect its geopolitical positions.
The US position will depend on how Iran's foreign policy course, nuclear program, and security policy will change. A secular government that normalizes relations with the West can create new diplomatic opportunities for Washington.
For China, the main issues are energy security, transit corridors, strategic partnership, and economic stability. Beijing is expected to prioritize the protection of trade routes and the prevention of regional conflicts rather than ideological slogans.
Iran's transition to the Turkish Republic model and its future accession to the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) can increase the geopolitical weight of the Turkic world. The Caspian basin, the Middle Corridor, energy routes, and East-West trade relations can become subjects of common strategic discussions.
However, OTS membership requires political will, the consent of member states, and decisions in accordance with the organization's procedures. The main issue here is the possible change in Iran's political identity and center of power. If the calls reported from Tabriz turn into a nationwide political will, its consequences will be important not only for Tehran but also for Ankara, Baku, Moscow, Washington, and Beijing.
Some analysts believe that in the current period when a new world order is being formed, such a change can help Iran overcome its existing difficulties. There are also citizens in the country who support secularism.
If Iran takes such a step in the future and applies for OTS membership, this process can create new opportunities for it. Iran can take one of the leading places in the organization in terms of its territory, population, and natural resources. In turn, the positions of the OTS will also strengthen.
Of course, this is not an easy process. Conservative forces in Iran are expected to oppose such a change. Nevertheless, various scenarios regarding the country's future and regional cooperation remain a subject of discussion.
Sevinj MAHARRAMOVA
