New regulation on arms transit through Turkey amid Iran-US conflict: President Erdoğan signs decree

AKP Chairman and President Erdoğan has signed a critical decree regulating the transit of military equipment through Turkey during a period of ongoing conflict. Under the new decision, approval from the Ministry of Trade will be required for arms shipments between foreign countries.

The regulation, which entered into force with Erdoğan's signature, covers the transit and re-export of war vehicles and equipment, weapons, ammunition, military explosives, and related technologies through the Turkish customs territory.

The primary objective of the decision published in the Official Gazette was stated as "ensuring that these shipments are carried out in accordance with national and international security principles."

COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE MANDATORY

According to the regulation, it has become mandatory to apply to the Ministry of Trade and obtain a "compliance certificate" for military materials to be sent from one foreign country to another via Turkey.

Before granting this authorization, the Ministry will consult with relevant institutions and organizations. Customs administrations will only permit the shipment to proceed after this approval letter is obtained. Furthermore, the Ministry of Trade will have the authority to revoke the compliance certificate or determine different application procedures when deemed necessary.

The decree brings not only military products on a specific list under inspection but also any type of goods suspected of being usable for military purposes.

Accordingly, even if an item is not on the controlled list, Ministry approval will be sought if there is a declaration or suspicion that it will be used for military purposes. The same provisions will also apply to shipments deemed to potentially "endanger national security, lead to human rights violations, or negatively affect Turkey's foreign relations."

The authority to execute the provisions of the decree has been granted to the Minister of Trade.

DECISION TAKEN DURING ONGOING CONFLICT DRAWS ATTENTION

The fact that this decision was taken during a period when the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran is ongoing has drawn attention. The decree has also brought about questions regarding Turkey's role in this process.

News Source: 12punto