Turkey’s NATO role under scrutiny amid new report on Hamas, Muslim Brotherhood ties A Foundation for Defense of Democracies report argues that Turkey, under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has increasingly aligned with Islamist movements, including Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood, moving away from its Western alliances. The report details alleged ties to Hamas, with expanded operations in Turkey after 2011, and positions Turkey as a hub for Muslim Brotherhood figures fleeing crackdowns in their home countries. This trajectory raises questions about Turkey’s role within NATO, particularly as it prepares to host a summit, despite some analysts noting ongoing constraints from its relationship with the U.S. and past positive interactions with former President Trump.

• A new report from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies alleges Turkey under President Erdoğan has deepened engagement with Islamist movements like Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood.
• The report claims Hamas has expanded its presence in Turkey since 2011, establishing offices and engaging in recruitment and fundraising.
• Turkey is described as a regional hub for Muslim Brotherhood figures relocating from countries where the movement is banned or restricted.
• Concerns are raised about potential U.S. sanctions on Turkish officials due to alleged support for groups like al-Nusra and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
• Some analysts suggest Turkey’s relationship with the U.S. and past interactions between Erdoğan and Donald Trump may constrain its behavior.
• The report recommends potential U.S. policy responses, including sanctions and increased scrutiny of Turkey’s financial system.