Ankara

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is currently newsworthy due to its precarious position amidst regional tensions, particularly involving Iran. Recent events show a series of ballistic missiles fired from Iran towards Turkey, which have been intercepted by NATO air defenses. Debris from these interceptions has fallen on Turkish soil, prompting condemnation from Ankara. This situation tests both Turkey's role as a NATO member and the alliance's commitment to its defense. Simultaneously, Ankara is attempting to mediate between the United States and Iran, with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressing a belief that Iran is open to back-channel talks despite a lack of serious initiatives for negotiation. Ankara aims to avoid escalation and sees itself as a key player in regional security, advocating for a diplomatic approach. Turkey also reaffirmed its interest in joining the BRICS bloc and secured a deal for British Steel to supply rail for a high-speed railway.