Panel On The Place and Significance of The May 14, 1950 Elections in Turkey‘s Political Life

In the panel we held on "The Place and Significance of the May 14, 1950 Elections in Türkiye's Political Life," we re-examined the turning points of our history through the profound insights shared by our esteemed professors. We extend our deepest gratitude to our faculty members who broadened our horizons with their knowledge and expertise—foremost among them our advisor Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, as well as Prof. Dr. M. Serhan Yücel, Prof. Dr. Cemal İyem, Prof. Dr. Süleyman Elik, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yüksel Okşak, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali Bilgenoğlu, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Selami Erdoğan.

Meeting of Research Center Directors At DPÜ

Kütahya Dumlupınar University’s Coordination Office for Application and Research Centers hosted a meeting chaired by our Rector, Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, and attended by the directors of our application and research centers. A meeting of Research Center Directors was held at DPÜ. The event, held at the Coordination Office for Application and Research Centers, was attended by our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Ayhan Kahraman, Secretary General Yusuf Çetin, and the directors of our research and application centers. In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak emphasized the importance of our research centers regarding the university's scientific productivity and societal contributions. Thanking the center directors for their successful work in 2025, our Rector stated that they would continue to support projects that raise the university's profile in the national and international arenas in 2026. The meeting began with a comprehensive evaluation of the scientific and social activities conducted by the research center directors during 2025. Subsequently, plans for the upcoming period were formulated through an exchange of views on new projects, congresses, and fieldwork targeted for implementation in 2026. The meeting concluded after receiving suggestions for improving ongoing activities.

Executions in Our Political Life: Menderes, Zorlu, Polatkan

Executions in Our Political Life: Menderes, Zorlu, Polatkan Panelists: Prof. Dr. Esra SARIKOYUNCU Prof. Dr. Hüseyin ŞEYHANLIOĞLU İhsan TUNÇOĞLU Adil ÖZKAN Moderator: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eray ACAR   Date: Monday, September 16, 2024 Time: 14:00 Venue: DPÜ Graduate School of Education Building, Coordination Hall for Application and Research Centers

Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu: “Türkiye Has Been Tested By Terrorism for 55 Years İt İs Time for A Solution.“

Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, Coordinator of Application and Research Centers at Kütahya Dumlupınar University (DPÜ) and an expert in Political Science and International Relations, made significant statements regarding Turkey’s struggle against terrorism and the PKK terrorist organization. Şeyhanlıoğlu noted that the cost of Turkey's counter-terrorism efforts—spanning the period from the right-left conflicts of the 1970s and 80s through the era following the September 12 coup, and specifically since 1984 when the PKK launched its first armed attacks—has reached nearly 2 trillion dollars.     Recalling that Turkey had previously undertaken serious initiatives and explored various avenues to resolve the terrorism issue, Şeyhanlıoğlu said, "There was a serious search for a solution, particularly during the terms of the late Özal and Demirel between 1988 and 1993; however, the process of internal peace was reversed due to both domestic and external factors—specifically the unsolved murders that began in 1993 (such as the killings of Uğur Mumcu and Adnan Kahveci, the martyrdom of 33 soldiers on the Elazığ-Bingöl highway, and the deaths of Eşref Bitlis and Turgut Özal in various accidents). A new solution process was launched in 2014, notably under Erdoğan's leadership, but it too was derailed by events such as the Gezi Park protests, the October 6–8 incidents, the 'Trench Wars,' and the July 15 coup attempt. All these processes were deliberately timed to coincide with periods when Turkey was gaining strength; the PKK was used as a 'mine' in these instances, and efforts for domestic and regional peace were ultimately thwarted." Emphasizing that terrorism threatens the stability not only of Turkey but also of the region—particularly Iraq and Syria—Şeyhanlıoğlu stated that the PYD has been institutionalized in Syria by the US and is supported by Israel and Western nations.       "The PKK/PYD is supported by Western countries for the sake of a 'Greater Israel'"     Noting that the US, the UK, and Israel, in particular, support the PYD, Şeyhanlıoğlu said, "Today, the PYD in Syria has been transformed into a terrorist network 100,000 strong. The anti-tank weapons in their possession are Swedish-made, their aircraft are US-made, and their bunkers and tunnels are French-made; the West is arming this brainwashed, puppet-like organization and providing it with both material and moral support."     Şeyhanlıoğlu stated that the organization became institutionalized in Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq between 1984 and 2004; however, following the organization's failure—marked by the loss of 96% of its field operatives by 2004, Turkey’s normalization under the AK Party government, and the reversal of policies pursued by the US commander who oversaw the occupation of Mosul—the group, under the leadership of Nizamettin Taş, effectively dissolved the PKK structure and aligned itself with Barzani (Erbil, 2007). It was not until three years after this collapse that the organization—with Germany's support—underwent a restructuring process. Consequently, although the name remained the same, a distinct, second organization was effectively established. "For this reason," he said, "Öcalan’s influence over the PKK has waned. The initial version of the PKK ended in 2004, but a different structure emerged in 2007. If you were to ask, 'Does the new PKK listen to Öcalan?' I would say, 'No, it does not.'"     Şeyhanlıoğlu—who conducted fieldwork in Iraq and Syria regarding the 'solution process' as well as ISIS and the PKK following the outbreak of the externally instigated Syrian civil war in March 2011, and who was once detained in Kirkuk along with his team by an unidentified group—explained the situation as follows: "The PYD was institutionalized in the region east of the Euphrates and in northern Syria through a meeting held in August 2011 at Jalal Talabani’s home, attended by Syrian Security Advisor Ali Mamlouk, Asif Shawkat, Murat Karayılan, Bahoz Erdal, and Qasem Soleimani. Meanwhile, Brett McGurk, the US Special Envoy for the Middle East, established the SDF by incorporating the Tayy and Shammar tribes from Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor. Thus, the US institutionalized the PYD—creating a scenario where the 'student surpasses the master'—to link it to Israel via the 'David Corridor,' even if the PKK were to cease existing. The ultimate goal is a 'Greater Israel.'"       "Turkey wants to resolve this issue once and for all"     Recalling a speech delivered in Parliament by MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli, Şeyhanlıoğlu noted, "Bahçeli said, 'If Öcalan claims he founded the organization, let him disband it now.'" "Turkey now wants to resolve this issue, and a resolution process is being conducted for the last time," he said. "However, Öcalan—like the organization itself—is merely a pawn, and Israel stands behind this."     Emphasizing that Turkey has also adopted a clear stance against terrorist elements in Syria, Şeyhanlıoğlu asked, "What will happen to the heavy weapons held by the PYD? Turkey proposes integrating them into the Syrian National Army. Turkey wants the region to achieve stability. Can Öcalan exert influence over the organization? No. Therefore, we must be prepared for a worst-case scenario, such as the 'trench warfare' of the past."     Stating that Turkey, Iraq, and Syria need to develop a joint model for economic and political cooperation, Şeyhanlıoğlu said, "Why shouldn't we establish a cooperation model similar to that of the European Union? Oil, water, land, and a capable, hungry workforce are all here. By utilizing these resources jointly, we can ensure regional stability and emerge as a global power."     Noting Turkey's determination in the fight against terrorism, Şeyhanlıoğlu added, "This terrorist entity will either lay down its arms, or Turkey will take the necessary military steps. However, judging by the mindsets of Trump and Netanyahu, preparations for Armageddon are underway."

Evliya Çelebi, World Traveler“ Panel At DPÜ

A panel titled "In Commemoration of the 414th Anniversary of the Birth of the World Traveler Evliya Çelebi" was held at Kütahya Dumlupınar University, featuring Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Sır Dündar, Prof. Dr. Emine Dingeç, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Ozan Aytepe as speakers.   A panel titled "In Commemoration of the 414th Anniversary of the Birth of the World Traveler Evliya Çelebi" was organized at DPÜ.   Our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, the Director of our Graduate School of Education Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eray Acar, along with staff members and numerous students, attended the event—organized by our Coordination Office of Application and Research Centers—held at the Graduate School of Education Building Conference Hall.   Following a moment of silence and the singing of the National Anthem, Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak delivered the opening speech. He began by thanking those who contributed to the organization of the event, stating, "Evliya Çelebi is one of the greatest intellectuals of the Turkish nation. No other traveler produced a body of work as vast as his. He visited not only the Turkic-Islamic lands but also the surrounding Christian nations, reporting on them and offering various observations and warnings." He continued:   In his ten-volume work, Evliya Çelebi shared with us—in minute detail—everything from the livelihoods of people in regions spanning from Sudan to Egypt and the cold climates of Erzurum and Kütahya, to the working methods of bakers in Istanbul and Cairo and the bureaucratic systems operating in various cities. This is the Turkish figure we need to introduce to the world. At a time when Turks are sometimes portrayed in distorted or negative ways, Evliya Çelebi is the figure we ought to highlight to represent our nation. Just as we take pride in bearing the name "Dumlupınar," we are immensely proud to carry his name on our campus and to know that he grew up in this region. We are organizing this event today to commemorate the 414th anniversary of his birth. Evliya Çelebi—who forged connections with all the nations he encountered—is a crucial figure for illustrating our place in world civilization and the nature of our mission. Every event we hold in his honor is of great importance. May his soul rest in peace.   Prof. Dr. Kızıltoprak concluded his speech by thanking the attendees and extending his best wishes for the upcoming holiday.   Following the opening remarks, a panel moderated by Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu took place. The speakers—Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Sır Dündar, Prof. Dr. Emine Dingeç, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Ozan Aytepe—informed the audience about Evliya Çelebi’s life, his works, and his travel notes, as well as their reflections on contemporary literature, science, education, and art.   The panel concluded after the speakers were thanked and commemorative photographs were taken.

Political Map

Political Map

Post-brexit Uk-eu and Türkiye Relations Discussed At DPU

Relations between the United Kingdom, the EU, and Turkey in the post-Brexit era were discussed at a conference held at Kütahya Dumlupınar University, featuring Dr. Kenan Aksu, a faculty member at Goldsmiths, University of London, as the speaker.   DPÜ hosted the conference titled "Post-Brexit UK-EU and Turkey-EU Relations."   The event, held at the Coordination Office for Application and Research Centers, was attended by Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, Director of the Graduate School of Education Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eray Acar, Coordinator for Application and Research Centers Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, as well as staff and students.   The conference began with a moment of silence and the singing of the National Anthem. Dr. Kenan Aksu opened his address by providing background information on the European Union and discussing the history of relations between the UK and the EU, as well as their impact on Turkey. He detailed the process of the UK's withdrawal from the European Union—internationally known as Brexit—noting that although the 2016 referendum resulted in a decision to leave, the process took four years to complete. Dr. Aksu highlighted the numerous challenges the UK faced in areas such as the economy, trade, education, and healthcare during this period, observing that the country still struggles to overcome certain issues four years after the separation; he also pointed out a significant rise in racist tendencies since 2016.   Emphasizing that Turkey is among the countries affected by the Brexit process, Dr. Aksu stated, “Although Turkey secured certain significant gains following Brexit, the separation rendered some key agreements between Turkey and the United Kingdom invalid. This necessitated the renewal of numerous agreements, particularly in the realm of trade. Turkey’s relations with both the EU and the United Kingdom underwent change and transformation as a result of this separation.”   Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak delivered the closing remarks, offering a general assessment of Brexit’s impact on European politics, and thanked Dr. Kenan Aksu for his contributions.   The event concluded after questions from the participants were answered.

Dumlupınar Workshop On History, Culture, Art, and Economy

Geographic Map

Geographic Map

Talk On The Middle East, Current Issues, and Türkiye At DPU

An event titled "The Middle East, Current Issues, and Turkey" was held at Kütahya Dumlupınar University, featuring Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, Prof. Dr. Hüsamettin İnaç, and Prof. Dr. Salih Tuğ as speakers.   DPÜ hosted the event titled "The Middle East, Current Issues, and Turkey."   Organized by the Application and Research Center Coordination Office and held in the foyer of the Graduate Education Institute, the event was attended by our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, the Dean of the Faculty of Education Prof. Dr. Metin Demir, as well as academic and administrative staff and students.   Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, who delivered the opening address, outlined recent developments in the Middle East and informed the audience about their impact on Türkiye. Prof. Dr. Hüsamettin İnaç illustrated how the attacks carried out by Israel in Palestine and Lebanon have shaped Türkiye's foreign policy. Finally, Prof. Dr. Salih Tuğ listed resources that students could consult to understand current developments in the Middle East and shared insights into the region's history based on these works.   The event concluded after a Q&A session with the students.

Conference On “Current Developments in The Middle East and Türkiye” Held At Gediz Vocational School

The conference was held with strong participation from students, as well as the academic and administrative staff of Gediz Vocational School. At the event, moderated by Assistant Professor Kübra Öztürk, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu addressed current developments in the Middle East and evaluated their impact on Turkey. Offering a broad perspective to the attendees, Şeyhanlıoğlu also explained in detail how the dynamics in the region affect Turkey’s foreign policy and national security.

The New Syria and The Great Game in The 21st Century.

The struggle for dominance in the 21st century is playing out once again in the region between the Eastern Mediterranean coast and the Euphrates—much like Napoleon’s invasion of Egypt and Syria 225 years ago.   Had Napoleon managed to advance beyond Acre, the French army—intending to reach Afghanistan via Iran—aimed to drive the British out of Afghanistan in alliance with the Russians (1798–99).   Although Napoleon was defeated by the wily veteran Jezzar Pasha and his plan came to naught, this event ignited the fuse of the "Great Game"—a contest among Russia, France, and Britain to control India and gain access to warm waters—a process that continued with full intensity throughout the 19th century.   In essence, this dynamic had already played out in earlier eras: with the Ottomans in the 16th century, the Mongols in the 12th, the Crusaders in the 11th, and the Romans, Alexander the Great, and the Persians in the 1st century—as well as during the Egyptian-Hittite war (Kadesh, 1269 BC), which produced history's first written treaty.

Panel On The Return of Syrians in The Context of Changing Middle Eastern Balances At DPU

Kütahya Dumlupınar University hosted a panel titled "The Return of Syrians Amidst Shifting Middle East Balances," moderated by Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu and featuring speakers Prof. Dr. Yücel Karadaş, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yüksel Okşak, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Karataş, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zeynep Hiçdurmaz, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Erdem Ayçiçek.   A panel titled "The Return of Syrians Amidst Shifting Middle East Balances" was held at DPÜ.   The event, organized by the University's Coordination Office of Application and Research Centers, took place in the training hall of the Graduate Education Institute building. Attendees included our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, Prof. Dr. Yücel Karadaş, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yüksel Okşak, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Karataş, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zeynep Hiçdurmaz, Asst. Prof. Dr. Erdem Ayçiçek, as well as staff and students.   Delivering a speech at the event—which began following a moment of silence and the singing of the National Anthem—Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak emphasized the significance of the gathering and noted that the issue of Syrians in Türkiye has long been a topic of public discourse. He continued, "People have been suffering for 13 years. Unfortunately, certain segments of society in our country use expressions that hurt people, lacking a sense of love for humanity, historical awareness, and civilizational consciousness." Before arriving in these lands, our ancestors crossed the Euphrates River. Ertuğrul Gazi's grandfather was martyred there. Before coming to Domaniç, we went to Raqqa, Aleppo, and Damascus. Even before the victory of 1071, Damascus was ruled by a Turkish sovereign as early as 878; the same was true for Jerusalem. If we lack this historical consciousness, hate speech and racist rhetoric will poison our agenda, regardless of our origins. "We have responsibilities toward our nation and our citizens," he said, and continued:

The Ideal of A Great Türkiye Born in Kütahya At Dpü: Adnan Menderes and The May 27th Workshop

Kütahya Dumlupınar University hosted a workshop titled "The Ideal of a Great Turkey Born from Kütahya: Adnan Menderes and May 27," organized with the participation of Kütahya provincial officials.   DPÜ hosted the workshop titled "The Ideal of a Great Turkey Born from Kütahya: Adnan Menderes and May 27."   The workshop, organized by our Coordination Office of Application and Research Centers at the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences (Amphitheater 2), was attended by Kütahya Governor Musa Işın; Kütahya Members of Parliament Adil Biçer, İsmail Çağlar Bayırcı, and Mehmet Demir; our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak; our deans; AK Party Kütahya Provincial Chairman Mustafa Önsay; as well as our academic and administrative staff and students.   PROF. DR. KIZILTOPRAK: MAY 27 IS A DARK DAY FOR TURKISH DEMOCRACY   Delivering the opening speech at the workshop—which began following the inauguration and viewing of the "DPÜ Coordination Office of Application and Research Centers and the Democratic Party Era Kütahya Photography Exhibition" by the attending officials—our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak expressed his thoughts as follows:   "Today, on the anniversary of May 27, we are all filled with sorrow. Our city, Kütahya, is a city that has made significant contributions to Turkish history, Turkish art, Turkish culture, and Islamic civilization." Just as we take pride in Gazi Mustafa Kemal Pasha—who led our noble nation to victory in the War of Independence on these lands—and in Germiyanoğlu Yakup Bey—who made immense sacrifices and bolstered the strength of the Turkish nation by joining the Ottoman State—we also take pride in the contribution we made to the celebration of Turkish democracy on May 14, 1950. Our democratic experience, which began in 1877, was reflected at the ballot box in 1950 through the will of our people. The victory of the Democrat Party—which upheld the principle that "sovereignty belongs to the nation"—was achieved here, thanks to our fellow citizens who elected Adnan Menderes as a Member of Parliament.   Yet, on another day in May—May 27—Adnan Menderes, who had ushered in a "golden age" for Türkiye in many respects, was detained by coup plotters in Kütahya. That day remains a dark day for Turkish democracy and Turkish history. We do not wish to experience such dark days ever again. That is why we always remember the late Adnan Menderes and his colleagues with gratitude and respect. Thankfully, the torch of democracy he lit remains in our hands today, and his ideal of a "Great Turkey" stands as a goal for us all. How fortunate we are—as the Turkish nation and as the people of Kütahya—to have stood up for our free will, our legitimate government, and our legitimate president on July 15, 2016. New heroes of democracy will emerge from this city and this country. This country and this city stand ever ready to teach a necessary lesson to those who would threaten democracy and the will of our noble nation. GOVERNOR IŞIN: KÜTAHYA, THE CITY OF FOUNDATION, LIBERATION, AND DEMOCRACY   Addressing participants at the workshop, Governor Musa Işın began his speech by commemorating the late Prime Minister Adnan Menderes, Foreign Minister Fatin Rüştü Zorlu, and Finance Minister Hasan Polatkan with respect. He emphasized the Turkish nation's commitment to its independence and future, stating that democracy and the rule of law must never be abandoned.   Noting that Kütahya is a city of both foundation and liberation—as well as the place where the foundations of democracy were laid—Musa Işın recalled that the political career of Adnan Menderes, who was elected as a Member of Parliament from Kütahya in the first multi-party election held on July 21, 1946, came to an end with his arrest in Kütahya during the May 27, 1960 coup. Governor Işın stated, "We must remain united and together under all circumstances. Regardless of their individual opinions and thoughts, people must exercise their fundamental rights and freedoms without resorting to violence and must not abandon democracy. Continuing our path while upholding the supremacy of the rule of law is essential for us."   Following the opening remarks, the workshop began with its first session chaired by Prof. Dr. Hüsamettin İnaç; the session featured Prof. Dr. Ergün Yıldırım, Asst. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Yalçın Yılmaz, and Dr. Lecturer... ...member Mehmed Ali Gemuhluoğlu informed the participants by evaluating Adnan Menderes's political persona and his contributions to Turkish politics from various perspectives.   In the second session, chaired by Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, Prof. Dr. Şerif Demir, Prof. Dr. Serkan Dilek, and Prof. Dr. Serhan Yücel explained—with examples—how the development initiatives led by Adnan Menderes and their outcomes have influenced contemporary politics.   The panel concluded with a vote of thanks to the speakers following the question-and-answer session.

The Partitioned Middle East Project: Ahmed Al-shara‘s Visit to Türkiye and Netanyahu‘s Visit to America

Beginning in the early 18th century and extending from regions such as Afghanistan, Indonesia, Africa, and Turkestan all the way to Central Anatolia, the Islamic world fell under Western and Russian occupation within the span of two centuries.   Although Afghanistan became a graveyard for the British and Russian Empires and Anatolia was liberated, this situation has unfortunately persisted through genocides far more horrific than those perpetrated by the Mongols and Crusaders in the 12th and 13th centuries.   Crimea, Afghanistan, Africa, Libya, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Kashmir, Bosnia, and Palestine stand as prime examples.   With the neutralization of Abdulhamid II—the last Islamic Caliph to wield real power and authority—on July 23, 1908, and the subsequent internal collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the sun of a magnificent 1,300-year-old civilization was eclipsed in broad daylight at high noon.   For with the fall of the Ottoman Empire—which held sway over oil-rich territories—the clock of Islamic civilization was, in the words of British historian Arnold J. Toynbee, "stopped prematurely."   Indeed, following the internal collapse of the Ottoman Empire—brought about by externally abetted treason (1908)—and the fate of the Caliphate, which was dismantled under British pressure and amidst the specious rhetoric claiming the role was the "right of an Arab *Sayyid*, not a Turk," the Islamic world has spent the last century left hungry, destitute, homeless, and fatherless—much like the people of Gaza. The Ottoman Empire—which until 1908 still dominated the Balkans, commissioned the Germans to build the Baghdad and Hejaz railways, awaited the opportunity of a European World War to regroup, and continued to strike fear into the West through its Islamic domestic and foreign policies (such as the Hamidiye Regiments and schools, and intelligence operations in China and India)—was brought down in 1908 by the Yıldız and Sublime Porte coups; these were orchestrated from Paris but controlled by British and Zionist interests (linked to the Italian Carbonari and P2 Masonic Lodges).   Subsequently, following a German naval ruse that led to the bombing of the Russians, the Ottoman Empire—the last Islamic state—soon found itself facing the Sarikamish disaster in the Allah-u Ekber Mountains, where its troops began to freeze to death.   Under German strategic direction, 100,000 men gathered from the deserts of Iraq and Syria encountered "white death" (snow) falling from the sky for the first time as they crossed the Taurus Mountains; clad only in robes, they froze to death without firing a single shot at the Russians and were buried in snowdrifts in December 1914.   Two years later, although the Ottomans achieved victories at Gallipoli and in the Caucasus—and at Kut al-Amara, where Halil Kut Pasha, alongside the Arab Ujaymi Sadun Pasha and Barzanji Kurds, captured 17,000 elite British troops and their commanders—the collapse of the Palestine front caused the army to disintegrate all the way back to the Taurus Mountains.   Thus, the fully equipped 100,000-strong army stationed in Syria and Gaza also disintegrated due to betrayal, and the Ottoman Empire began to collapse (or be brought down) starting from its vital connection points.   For the First and Second... Despite victories in the Gaza battles, the loss of the Third Battle of Gaza led to the fall of Jerusalem on December 9, 1917; subsequently, Damascus fell to the British on October 11, Homs on October 16, and Aleppo on October 25.   Following these disasters, an armistice was requested on October 8, and the Armistice of Mudros was signed on October 30.

Shifting Global Balances in The 21st Century and Türkiye

NOT AT THE NEGOTIATING TABLE, BUT ON THE BATTLEFIELD Considering Israel’s recklessness, the US’s behavior that upends all established norms, and the expansion processes of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, it appears highly probable that this unfolding process will not be resolved at the negotiating table. Instead, a decisive shift—specifically regarding the containment of China’s rising military and economic power (which now exceeds 30% of the global total, positioning it to displace the US of 70 years ago)—will likely occur on the battlefield. This could undoubtedly escalate into an apocalyptic war involving nuclear, space, missile, and cyber capabilities.   While China—having brokered peace between Saudi Arabia and Iran regarding the Yemen conflict—has rapidly ascended in regional and global influence over the last 30 years through soft power tools like political economy and diplomacy, its Foreign Minister has also openly declared that Gaza is part of Palestine and has opposed Trump’s plan for Gaza. Indeed, the US has begun establishing the "Golden Globe" system to defend itself against China’s intercontinental ballistic missiles, which have a range of 14,000 kilometers. This signifies that the US—separated from the rest of the world by oceans—can no longer rely on a buffer like Egypt’s Sinai Desert for security. After all, these missiles arrive from space!   THE US ON A KNIFE-EDGE In essence, the administration of Trump—who seeks to establish and maintain a 21st-century order dominated by US supremacy—is walking a knife-edge, caught between the public and the "deep state" at home, and the global "cabal" ties linking London and Beijing abroad. Having survived various assassination attempts—including imprisonment and being shot in the ear—Trump set out to put the US back on track by cutting public spending (including closing consulates via Elon Musk), reducing military expenditures, and increasing revenues. This is because, while the American public suffers in squalor—with millions living in destitution on the streets and the healthcare and education systems in shambles—Israel’s "gathered population" receives these very services for free, funded by American money. Trump aims to plug these financial gaps with the $100 billion Taiwan has paid out of fear of China and the $1 trillion he expects from Saudi Arabia. To this end, the US President plans to end the war by setting a trap for Ukraine’s "dictator-juggler" alongside Putin; meanwhile, he tells Europe—which eyes seizing the rare earth elements of both Russia and Ukraine—to either fend for themselves against Russia or foot the bill for NATO.   Looking at the history of this process, although US hegemony—established after the 1991 Soviet collapse and the Iraq War—continued through the post-9/11 invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan and the Greater Middle East Project (GMEP), global balances in the 21st century are being radically altered by global cabals that corrupt generations and food supplies.   Just as the mantle of global dominant power shifted (or was shifted) from Britain to the US in the mid-20th century, it is now shifting (or being shifted) from the US to China. "Company-nations"—which surpassed empires in power a century ago and triumphed in the French Revolution (1789)—have now evolved into a state centered on information and capital (aiming for a "Greater Israel" with Jerusalem as its capital) that has become more powerful than even the USA. To this end, it appears that the era of US dominance is drawing to a close.   Even Trump voices this, albeit with trepidation. While absolute obedience to Israel was a factor in the American public—whose political significance is otherwise limited—bringing Trump to power, his agenda also includes opposition to LGBT deviance, withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and the pandemic-era WHO, the neutralization of the WTO, UN, and ICC, the potential dismantling of NATO, and actions and demands that go beyond "America First" rhetoric or the conventions of the diplomatic establishment. In this context, one can observe shared traits between Trump and leaders like our President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan—who famously told a commander clinging to old habits at a National Security Council meeting to "Shut up, man!", challenged Israel with "One Minute!", and declared at the UN that "The world is bigger than five"—as well as Putin, who stands against the business elite and classifies LGBT activities as a security offense.   Looking at global military spending over the last decade—even prior to Trump—it is evident that the Cold War is shifting toward hot conflict, with nations rapidly preparing for second- and third-strike capabilities (including cyber and nuclear warfare, or "Armageddon"). For instance, a report in the British newspaper *Daily Mail* indicates that five nations—China, Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea—have collectively increased their nuclear stockpiles by more than 700 warheads over the past 40 years. Even Poland, having learned lessons from the World War, has decided to join the nuclear club.   In short, the current situation bears a resemblance to the pre-World War II era, specifically the photographs of Hitler, Mussolini, Stalin, and Churchill together. Amidst this, Trump—who has been beating the drums of war and demanding territories like Canada, Panama, and Greenland—has found himself at odds with Mexico, Canada, China, and Europe; indeed, they have effectively become adversaries of the US. Russia appears to be the only nation that has moved into the US's camp of friendship. Both the EU and the UK have also challenged the US. For instance, following US President Donald Trump’s announcement that aid to Ukraine was being suspended, the European Union (EU) Commission proposed a new €150 billion joint EU loan to fund defense for EU governments; furthermore, plans were put forward to allocate a total of €800 billion to "Rearm Europe"—an initiative aimed at boosting Europe's defense capabilities—while the UK [took a stance regarding] Zelenskyy, the burning of the White House, and the US...

15 July Panel From DPU

Kütahya Dumlupınar University organized a "July 15 Photographs Exhibition and Panel" at the Sera Kütahya Shopping Mall, featuring an opening address by Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak.   The July 15 Photographs Exhibition and Panel was held by DPÜ.   Our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, panelists, university staff, and members of the public attended the panel, which was hosted by the Sera Kütahya Shopping Mall.   At the event, moderated by Prof. Dr. Hüsamettin İnaç, the first speaker was Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu. After discussing past coup attempts in Türkiye and the subsequent developments in social and political life, he stated that the July 15 coup attempt differed from previous ones—and failed to succeed—because the public took to the streets to resist the coup.   Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erkan Çav began his speech by listing the events that had deeply shaken society prior to the 2016 coup attempt in Türkiye, and then examined the Turkish public's reaction to the July 15 coup attempt from a sociological perspective.   Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bakko Mehmet Bozaslan noted that, thanks to the strong stance of the Turkish nation, Türkiye stepped back from the brink of a potential civil war on July 15, 2016—a conflict whose effects could have persisted to this day. Pointing out that the terrorist organization—whose roots date back to the 1970s—had operated within the country for years, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bozaslan highlighted that this structure had also received significant support from abroad.   PROF. DR. KIZILTOPRAK: THE TURKISH NATION'S STRUGGLE AGAINST IMPERIALISTS SERVES AS AN EXAMPLE TO THE WORLD   Following the speeches, our Rector, Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, delivered the closing remarks. He began by thanking the speakers and participants and stated the following:   Throughout history, Turkic states have constantly faced power centers attempting to pull them down. The methods employed by the Chinese, the Byzantines, and the imperialists have always shown parallels.   The Turkish nation is a great nation that stood up against the Western countries bearing the banner of imperialism, thereby setting an example for all the nations of the world. Aware of this, the imperialist Western alliance has always sought to sow discord among our people in order to erect barriers in Türkiye's path. Attempts have been made to obstruct the steps we take toward the future using these very methods. Just as it did 102 years ago, our nation dealt another powerful blow to these same imperialist forces on July 15, 2016.   "JULY 15 IS A LEGITIMATE VICTORY WON THROUGH THE COURAGE OF THE TURKISH NATION"   This popular revolution carried out by our nation differs from other political revolutions witnessed in history. Through this national revolution, attempts instigated by imperialist forces were repelled. In doing so, we safeguarded our homeland and our values. Today, we declare in our strongest voice that the intellect, conscience, consciousness, sense of justice, foresight, and—above all—the courage of this noble nation have secured a legitimate victory for our country. Commemorating the lives lost on July 15, I honor with reverence the founders of our Republic—starting with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk—and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives to sustain this homeland from its inception to the present day, and I express my gratitude to our veterans.   Following the panel, the participants visited the July 15 Photography Exhibition.

The Nation’s Oath: Misak-ı Millî“ Conference At DPÜ

At the conference titled "The Nation’s Oath: Misak-ı Millî" (National Pact) held at Kütahya Dumlupınar University, speaker Prof. Dr. Esra Sarıkoyuncu Değerli offered insights into the historical significance of the Misak-ı Millî.   A conference titled "The Nation’s Oath: Misak-ı Millî" was organized at DPÜ.   Kütahya Dumlupınar University Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, along with academic and administrative staff and students, attended the conference, which was organized by the History Department of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and held in the Graduate Education Institute Seminar Room.   The event began with a moment of silence and the singing of the National Anthem, followed by an opening speech by Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak. Beginning his speech by stating, "There are certain documents that embody both the will and the memory of a nation; these are timeless. They are not merely clauses set down on paper. They represent a nation's memory and will, and serve as an expression of its independence and future," Prof. Dr. Kızıltoprak continued:   "The Misak-ı Millî is precisely such a text. It is the roadmap for the Turkish nation's independence and future. It is not merely a document that defines borders. It demonstrates the extent to which the Turkish nation possesses a will that transcends time and boundaries—politically, philosophically, legally, and morally. As you know, our homeland was occupied following World War I, and the Treaty of Sèvres involved various schemes for partitioning the territory. This document stands as proof to the world of the power and resolve possessed by the nation—at a time when others claimed the nation was completely exhausted and finished." In essence, the *Misak-ı Millî* (National Pact) is a declaration of will that not only answers questions regarding what we possess and where we stand, but also addresses our objectives and the path ahead. When we closely examine the text of the *Misak-ı Millî*, we see that it essentially outlines the roadmap for the nation's journey throughout the entire history of the Republic up to the present day. In other words, the *Misak-ı Millî* is not a static document, but a dynamic one. Ultimately, studying the *Misak-ı Millî* today sheds light on both the present and the future. The *Misak-ı Millî* represents a national consciousness, and I believe it will endure as long as we keep that consciousness alive.   The conference speaker, Prof. Dr. Esra Sarıkoyuncu Değerli—a faculty member at our Faculty of Science and Letters—focused her presentation on the emergence, adoption process, and historical background of the *Misak-ı Millî*, examining the document's relationship with the political developments of the Ottoman Empire's final era. She further noted that the decisions enshrined in the *Misak-ı Millî* played a guiding role in defining the objectives of the National Struggle.   The conference concluded with the taking of a commemorative photograph.

50th Anniversary of The Victory From Dpü: Cyprus Panel

As part of the events marking the 50th anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation, a celebration program and a "Victory Panel" were organized through the collaboration of the Kütahya Governorship and Kütahya Dumlupınar University.   A panel titled "The 50th Anniversary of the Victory: Cyprus" was held in cooperation with DPÜ and the Kütahya Governorship.   Hosted by the Kütahya Provincial Directorate of National Education, the event was attended by Kütahya Deputy Mayor Ümit Tulum, our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak, Kütahya Provincial Gendarmerie Commander Senior Colonel Murat Kırbaç, our Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Ayhan Kahraman, Kütahya Provincial Director of National Education Hasan Başyiğit, Turkey Combat Veterans Association Kütahya Branch Vice President Murat Karahan, as well as veterans, university staff, and citizens.   RECTOR KIZILTOPRAK: THE 1974 VICTORY BROUGHT PEACE TO CYPRUS AND TRANSFORMED THE SORROW IN OUR FOLK SONGS INTO HEROISM   Delivering the opening speech at the event—which began with a moment of silence and the singing of the National Anthem—our Rector Prof. Dr. Süleyman Kızıltoprak emphasized the significance of the Cyprus Peace Operation and expressed his thoughts as follows:   The retreats and defeats experienced since 1683 came to an end with the Victory of Dumlupınar in 1922, laying the foundations of our state. In the 51st year of the Republic of Türkiye, we achieved yet another great victory through the Cyprus Peace Operation of 1974, launched to rescue our Turkish brethren in Cyprus from genocide and oppression. Repeated attempts to intimidate and fragment Türkiye and the Turkish people have consistently been thwarted by the victories we have won. Today, here in Kütahya—the very soil where the Victory of Dumlupınar was won—we celebrate the Victory of Cyprus. May the souls of the martyrs who architected this victory rest in peace! Long live our veterans! The veterans present among us have honored us with their attendance; I salute each of them with respect, gratitude, and reverence.   The Turks in Cyprus, who had endured years of Greek Cypriot oppression and EOKA terrorism while facing systematic persecution, finally found the peace they sought when Turkish troops entered the island in the early hours of July 20, 1974. From the very day the bi-communal Republic of Cyprus was established in 1960, Greek Cypriot attempts to exclude Turks from the island’s administration and public life escalated into a campaign of terror. Türkiye legitimately deployed troops to the island in 1974, exercising the right of guarantee it held under the London-Zürich Agreements regarding the preservation of the political and constitutional order on the island of Cyprus. The Greek and Greek Cypriot ambition to annex the island to Greece was rendered a mere fantasy by Türkiye’s intervention. From that day forward, songs of heroism—rather than sorrow and suffering—began to be sung across Türkiye and Cyprus. From the Peace Operation to the present day, no acts of persecution or terrorism against Turks have occurred in Cyprus. The safe living area established by our military forces for Turkish Cypriots in the north of the island has both protected the Turks and served as a deterrent against the Greek Cypriots, thereby bringing peace to Cyprus. This territory was formally recognized as belonging to the Turkish Cypriots upon the proclamation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1985. We respectfully salute and express our gratitude to all the martyrs and veterans who contributed to this victory.   “CYPRUS IS TURKEY’S AIRCRAFT CARRIER IN THE EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN”   Following the Rector’s opening remarks, the “50th Anniversary of the Victory: Cyprus” event continued with a performance of heroic folk songs by the Kütahya Municipality Choir. After the choir’s performance, a show by our university’s folk dance troupe was watched with great enthusiasm by the attendees.   In the panel session of the event, moderated by Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, the issue of Cyprus was analyzed from every angle, spanning the period from the reign of Selim II to the present day. Panelist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bakko Mehmet Bozaslan stated that the island of Cyprus—conquered during the reign of Selim II—holds strategic importance for Turkey today, just as it did for the Ottoman Empire in the past; he further noted that the Greek Cypriots living on the island today trace their origins to Ottoman citizens who were settled there as a result of Ottoman resettlement policies. Bozaslan concluded his speech by quoting the words of Rauf Denktaş, the Founding President of the TRNC: “Cyprus is Turkish and will remain Turkish.” Prof. Dr. Hüsamettin İnaç stated that Cyprus holds a significant position in Turkey’s regional policies. He emphasized that developments such as the 2004 Annan Plan initiative—which sought to re-establish a bi-communal state in Cyprus—and the subsequent accession of the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus to the European Union as the island's sole representative, were events aimed at curtailing or even eliminating the sphere of influence and operational space of both the TRNC and the Republic of Turkey in the region; he further highlighted that similar approaches persist to this day.   In his closing remarks at the panel, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu stated that the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation represented a victory for Turkey in one of the four critical zones within its immediate vicinity; he noted that a similar victory was achieved in Karabakh in 2020, and that Crimea and Jerusalem are next in line. Prof. Dr. Şeyhanlıoğlu also highlighted the role of Cyprus as an "aircraft carrier" for Türkiye in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Women‘s Participation in Politics During The Democrat Party Era

The event titled "Women's Participation in Politics During the Democrat Party Era"—organized by our university's Coordination Office of Application and Research Centers, moderated by Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Şeyhanlıoğlu, and featuring Assoc. Prof. Dr. Selami Erdoğan and Fatmanur Alhanlıoğlu as speakers—will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 14:00 in the Application and Research Center Conference Hall.