Introduction

The Muslim Brotherhood is a global political and social movement that has gained significant recognition and support in various countries across the Middle East and beyond. Two notable examples of countries that actively support the Muslim Brotherhood are Qatar and Turkey. This article delves into the ways in which these countries have aligned themselves with the Muslim Brotherhood and the implications of such support.

Support from Qatar

Background and Context

Following the ousting of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in 2011, the situation in Egypt became increasingly complex and politically charged. Qatar, under the leadership of the Al Thani royal family, played a pivotal role in providing financial and material support to the Muslim Brotherhood, aiming to strengthen its position post-Mubarak era.

Funding and Aid

Qatar has been one of the most significant financial backers of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt. After the ousting of Mubarak, Qatar offered substantial financial and humanitarian aid to Egypt, notably through the Qatari Foundation. This support included funding for various infrastructure projects, educational initiatives, and social programs, which were directed at supporting the Muslim Brotherhood and other pro-Islamist groups.

Political Dynamics

Qatar's support for the Muslim Brotherhood and its involvement in post-Mubarak Egypt has led to significant tensions with other countries in the Gulf. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, among others, have accused Qatar of undermining regional stability and promoting a pro-Islamist agenda. This has led to frosty relations between Qatar and these countries, despite the fact that Qatar's influence in Egypt has not been deeply felt in neighboring Gulf states.

Support from Turkey

Underpinning the Erdogan Regime

The relationship between Turkey and the Muslim Brotherhood is slightly different from that of Qatar. Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) view the Muslim Brotherhood as a valuable ally in several respects. Turkey’s support stems from the mutual admiration between the two ideologies and the need for Turkey to project its influence in the region.

Strategic Alignment

For Erdogan and the AKP, the Muslim Brotherhood provides a strategic alignment on issues such as Islam, democracy, and social justice. The ideological overlap between the two groups fosters a sense of mutual support and cooperation. Erdogan has openly expressed his admiration for the Muslim Brotherhood, particularly its efforts in providing social and educational services.

Influence and Soft Power

Supporting the Muslim Brotherhood allows Turkey to extend its influence beyond its borders and to counter the perceived dominance of other, notably Western, powers in the Middle East. The widespread network of the Muslim Brotherhood, particularly in countries like Egypt, Libya, and Jordan, gives Turkey a platform to project its soft power and to promote its vision of a more Islamic-oriented political and social order.

Implications and Future Outlook

Regional Stability and Tensions

The support of countries like Qatar and Turkey for the Muslim Brotherhood has contributed to regional stability, but it has also created tensions. The perceived influence of these groups in Arab countries has led to accusations of interference and an anti-democratic agenda by their critics. This situation has led to a complex web of alliances and rivalries in the region.

Challenges Ahead

Given the complexities of the Middle East, the ongoing support for the Muslim Brotherhood by countries such as Qatar and Turkey will continue to pose challenges. The future of these relationships will depend on evolving political landscapes and the ability of leaders to navigate the intricate dynamics of regional politics.

Conclusion

The support given by Qatar and Turkey to the Muslim Brotherhood reflects the broader power struggles and ideological battles within the Middle East. While these countries see benefits in aligning themselves with the Muslim Brotherhood, the implications of such support remain a source of debate and concern for regional stability.