Murat Sofuoglu

How the Ottoman architect Sinan helped Hagia Sophia survive for centuries

Mimar Sinan, an undisputedly greatest architect of the Ottoman era, constructed supporting blocks and minarets around Hagia Sophia in the 16th century, reinforcing its dome and increasing its longevity.

Why Russia supports Armenia against Azerbaijan in the Caucasus conflict

Moscow has played a significant role in propelling the conflict between the two neighbours by creating autonomous regions in Azerbaijan and drawing controversial borders.

Why Azerbaijanis and Armenians have been fighting for so long

Azerbaijan and Armenia have shared hostilities over various ethnic, religious and political reasons - but the Nagorno-Karabakh issue is the biggest hurdle that exists between the two.

What if the July 15 coup attempt had succeeded?

Experts see a different political future with dire consequences for the country’s integrity, independence and sovereignty.

Was the Srebrenica genocide aimed at the wider Muslim presence in Europe?

Some analysts see a connection between today's Islamophobia and the toxic Serbian nationalism of the 1990s, which sought to erase the Muslim Bosnian presence in the Balkans.

Who killed Iraqi researcher, Hisham al Hashimi, and why?

The assassination of a high-profile researcher in broad daylight in Baghdad may prove to be a covert message for Washington.

Israel faces tough questions over mysterious explosions in Iran

Recently, Iran has seen two big explosions hit nuclear and military facilities. Experts argue possible theories, including Israeli aggression and internal malfunctions.

Sisi’s Egypt: ‘more prisons’ than new hospitals and schools

After the coup, Egyptian social and political life has been occupied by a military-style existence, leaving people desperate — say some prominent exiles.

Pentagon says Taliban maintains Al Qaeda ties, jeopardising US-Taliban deal

A recent US Department of Defense report indicates that the Taliban continues to hold relations with Al Qaeda, forcing the Trump administration to reconsider its deal with the powerful armed Afghan movement.

Is Iran having trouble managing its Shia proxies in the Middle East?

Iran is gradually reducing its presence in the Middle East in the face of Israeli attacks and an economic crisis triggered by the pandemic and sanctions.

Why the potential US-Turkey free trade deal could be mutually beneficial

A prominent US Republican senator Lindsey Graham, who enjoys close ties with President Donald Trump, advocates for a free trade agreement between the two countries, saying it could help both reap economic benefits.

Is the West shifting towards recognising Bashar al Assad once again?

Recently, the US suggested that Assad does not necessarily have to go. Nonetheless, experts say it is still too early to ascertain whether the West's attitude towards the regime has changed.