OPINION: War tactics, US ties, and judiciary reshuffle

A prominent Turkish columnist has drawn attention to several overlooked but critical issues amid the ongoing Iran war, including Israel’s targeted assassinations, Türkiye’s cautious stance toward the United States, unresolved questions surrounding the Halkbank case, and a sweeping reshuffle in the judiciary under newly appointed Justice Minister Akın Gürlek. The analysis highlights growing political and institutional questions at a time of heightened geopolitical tension.

Author Ahmet Taşgetiren

Targeted assassinations emerge as key wartime tactic

The commentary notes that one of the defining features of the current conflict has been Israel’s use of targeted killings against Iranian leadership figures, a tactic previously deployed against Hezbollah and Hamas.

According to the analysis, these operations have exposed vulnerabilities in Iran’s intelligence and counterintelligence capabilities, as well as its ability to protect senior leadership.

The issue is seen as particularly relevant for Türkiye, given that Israeli actions have been described by Turkish leaders as a potential threat.

Questions over Türkiye–US relations

While Turkish leaders, including President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli, have strongly criticized Israel’s actions, the commentary points to a more cautious approach toward the United States.

Despite Washington’s active role alongside Israel in the conflict, Ankara has refrained from direct criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump.

The analysis suggests that Türkiye may be pursuing a “sensitive” diplomatic balance, potentially aiming to manage tensions with Washington and secure outcomes on other strategic issues.

However, it raises questions about transparency, arguing that the Turkish public should be informed about what is being negotiated or gained through this approach.

Halkbank case and lingering uncertainties

The commentary also revisits the long-running Halkbank case, highlighting unresolved questions linked to Turkish-Iranian gold trader Reza Zarrab.

It references remarks by former Halkbank executive Hakan Atilla, who criticized how the case was handled and suggested that Zarrab’s cooperation with U.S. authorities may have had broader political implications.

Key questions raised include:

• What information Zarrab may have shared with U.S. officials
• How this may have influenced negotiations involving Halkbank
• Why decisions were made regarding the return of assets in Türkiye

The analysis argues that these issues remain insufficiently explained to the public.

Justice Ministry reshuffle draws attention

Another major focus is the appointment of Akın Gürlek as Türkiye’s Justice Minister.

Gürlek, who previously held key judicial roles including Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor, has overseen high-profile investigations targeting opposition figures, including Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and the CHP.

His rapid rise—from judiciary positions to senior executive roles—has been described as unusual in Türkiye’s political and legal landscape.

Broad changes across the judiciary

Following Gürlek’s appointment, a wide-ranging reshuffle has taken place within the Justice Ministry.

More than 10 senior officials were replaced, including:

• Heads of criminal affairs
• Personnel and legal departments
• Prison administration

The changes were approved by President Erdoğan, reflecting a high level of political backing.

Judiciary reforms and political risks

The commentary notes that Gürlek will also play a key role in shaping the judiciary as head of the Council of Judges and Prosecutors (HSK).

This raises expectations of further changes in judicial appointments and operations.

The article also draws parallels with past judicial controversies in Türkiye, including:

• The 17–25 December investigations
• The attempted operation against intelligence chief Hakan Fidan
• The mass dismissal of over 4,000 judges and prosecutors after the 2016 coup attempt

These precedents are cited as reminders of how judicial decisions can have far-reaching political consequences.

A complex political period ahead

The commentary concludes that Türkiye is entering a sensitive and potentially transformative period.

With overlapping dynamics involving:

• Regional war risks
• Strategic relations with the United States
• Domestic political tensions
• Judicial restructuring

the coming months are expected to be critical for both governance and institutional stability.

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