The Red Sea Policies of the Ottoman Empire (1840–1918)
Türkiye Ortadoğu Çalışmaları Dergisi, vol.13, no.1, pp.49-71, 2026 (TRDizin)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 13 Issue: 1
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.26513/tocd.1809119
- Journal Name: Türkiye Ortadoğu Çalışmaları Dergisi
- Journal Indexes: Index Islamicus, Directory of Open Access Journals, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM), Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Social Science Premium Collection (ProQuest)
- Page Numbers: pp.49-71
- Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study examines the Ottoman Empire’s policies toward the Red Sea basin from the second half of the 19th century until the end of World War I, with a focus on geopolitical, strategic, and security dimensions. Following the opening of the Suez Canal and Britain’s occupation of Aden, the region emerged as a critical area of contention for the Ottoman Empire in terms of safeguarding the caliphate, securing trade routes, and preserving international influence. The article explores the Empire’s efforts to maintain dominance in the region, particularly in response to the attempts of creating a Jewish state, anti-smuggling policies, and geopolitical rivalry with great powers. The research is based primarily on Ottoman archival documents, including telegram, memoranda (layiha), press releases as well as local and international literature. Using a content analysis method, the study reveals how the geostrategic significance of the Red Sea directly influenced Ottoman foreign policy. It also highlights the Empire’s attempt to position itself not only as a regional actor but also as a stabilizing force in the global balance of power. In this regard, the study offers an original contribution to understanding the late Ottoman geopolitical strategy and the historical background of modern Middle Eastern politics.