موقف الحكومات التركية مـن اليهـود 1923ـ1980م

Abstract

The issue of the Jewish minority in Turkey and the position of successive governments toward it during the period 1923–1980 represent an important topic, given that the Jews constituted one of the minorities that played a major role during the Ottoman era. Their migration from Europe to the Ottoman state increased steadily, eventually leading to efforts to establish a national homeland for them in Palestine, despite Herzl’s failed attempts with Sultan Abdul Hamid. The Zionist lobby continued its activities until the advent of the ominous Balfour Declaration, which further intensified Jewish immigration to Palestine. The Turkish position toward the Jews was characterized by fluctuation between a desire for Turkification and the implementation of legal and economic measures. Accordingly, we observe an expansion of their activities during the establishment of the Turkish Republic, particularly in the industrial and commercial sectors. Indeed, the Jews were among the most influential groups in economic activity, which developed significantly and contributed to the growth of the Turkish economy. In addition, they played a serious role in both domestic and foreign politics and occupied high-ranking positions within the state. However, this did not halt Jewish migration to Palestine. After the establishment of their alleged state in Palestine, the Republic of Turkey recognized Israel out of a desire to draw closer to the Western bloc.