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The Journal of the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration at The George Washington University

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Conflict in the Middle East: The US and the Turkish-Kurdish Conflict

Matthew Dotzler

Volume 25, 2018

Abstract

The conflict between Turkey and the Kurds is once again reaching a boiling point. Following the defeat of ISIL in northern Iraq and Syria, Turkey is now concerned that the returning Kurdish militias pose a threat to its national security. The United States, as an ally to both parties, finds itself in a unique position to push for diplomatic solutions and to mediate the conflict before it grows out of control once again. This paper will examine the history of the Turkish-Kurdish conflict, the actors involved, and how US foreign policy can be used to try and deter yet another war in the region.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.4079/pp.v25i0.18351

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