Ugur Ergan is a columnist for pro-opposition Halk TV newsportal

Following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran — dubbed “Epic Fury” by Washington and “Roaring Lion” by Israel — Tehran’s retaliation against U.S. bases in the region has raised concerns in Türkiye. Two key questions dominate discussions in Ankara: Could the NATO radar base in Kürecik, eastern Türkiye, or the Turkish military base in Qatar become Iranian targets? Turkish sources say such a move is not expected “at this stage,” but tensions remain high.

Are Turkish-Linked Bases at Risk?

After Iran reportedly targeted U.S. military facilities in neighboring countries, attention in Türkiye turned to two strategic sites:

• The NATO early-warning radar base in Kürecik, Malatya

• The Turkish military base in Qatar, officially known as the Turkish-Qatari Joint Force Command

According to sources in Ankara, Iran is not currently expected to target Turkish territory or Turkish military units in the region.

Kürecik: A NATO Asset

Kürecik Radar Station hosts a NATO early-warning radar system.

Security officials note that any Iranian strike on Kürecik would effectively amount to a direct confrontation with NATO. Such an escalation, they argue, would significantly broaden the conflict and carry severe geopolitical consequences.

For this reason, Ankara-based sources suggest Tehran is unlikely to take such a risk.

The Turkish Base in Qatar

Turkish-Qatari Joint Force Command, commonly referred to as the Tarık bin Ziyad Barracks, has a planned capacity of between 3,000 and 5,000 personnel.

While Iran has reportedly targeted U.S. installations in Qatar, Turkish officials indicate that the Turkish base itself is not considered a likely target.

Sources also point out that Qatar’s air defense systems — including Patriot missile batteries — have been activated in response to Iranian strikes. Reports from the region suggest that missiles aimed at Doha were intercepted by Patriot systems.

Could This Trigger a Wider War?

A broader concern is whether Iran’s attacks on U.S. bases across the region could expand the conflict into a larger global confrontation.

Ankara sources are not currently using the term “World War.” However, officials monitoring developments acknowledge the global scope of ongoing conflicts:

• Russia–Ukraine war in Europe

• Pakistan–Afghanistan tensions in Asia

• U.S.–Israel strikes on Iran in the Middle East, followed by Iranian retaliation

One key strategic question, analysts note, is whether China could seize the moment to escalate pressure on Taiwan if the conflict drags on.

“When you consider the global geography of these conflicts,” one source said, “you can choose your own definition.”

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Advisory to Turkish Citizens

Turkish authorities have urged citizens in Iran and other affected regional countries to:

• Remain in secure locations

• Avoid unnecessary travel outdoors

• Stay in contact with Turkish embassies

• Follow official advisories closely

As regional tensions intensify, Ankara appears focused on containment, avoiding escalation, and ensuring the safety of its military personnel and citizens abroad.

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