CHP leader criticizes Turkey's NATO stance, hints at new party

Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Ünsal Ünlü has voiced strong criticism regarding Turkey's foreign policy alignment and its relationship with NATO and the United States. Speaking on a YouTube channel, Ünlü argued that Turkey should differentiate between being a NATO member and being overly "NATO-centric," suggesting the current government is too deferential to both NATO and U.S. President Donald Trump.

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We need to distinguish between being a NATO member and being NATO-centric. We shouldn't be too NATO-centric.

Ünlü specifically condemned the U.S. approach to Iran, noting that "The man [Trump] came to our neighboring country, a Muslim country, declared war, ended the ceasefire and gave the order to attack. He couldn't even wait a day to attack Iran." He expressed a feeling that "they" are trying to incite emotions like fear and anxiety to prevent rational decision-making, particularly concerning upcoming choices. He believes the leader preferred by "them" is risk-free for "them" but offers no hope for Turkey.

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The man [Trump] came to our neighboring country, a Muslim country, declared war, ended the ceasefire and gave the order to attack. He couldn't even wait a day to attack Iran.

The CHP leader also touched upon the legal battles surrounding Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Ünlü drew a parallel to past political trials, stating, "Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's judiciary is denying Ekrem İmamoğlu the right to defense that Kenan Evren's judiciary did not withhold from DİSK executives." He questioned the prolonged legal process, suggesting it implies a deep-seated fear of İmamoğlu.

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Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's judiciary is denying Ekrem İmamoğlu the right to defense that Kenan Evren's judiciary did not withhold from DİSK executives.

Furthermore, Ünlü addressed speculation about forming a new political party. He indicated that discussions are ongoing and a decision will be made in consultation with party members and the public. He stated that if remaining within the CHP becomes detrimental to those who have hope in them and to Turkey, then a new party will be established. He also mentioned that work is underway to transform an existing party as a measure against snap elections.

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If remaining within the CHP becomes detrimental to those who have hope in them and to Turkey, then a new party will be established.