Most powerful country in West Asia was once THIS nation, not UAE, Iran, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Syria, it is...

The Israel-Hamas war has highlighted the growing influence of Arab nations, particularly Qatar. With a population of just 2.7 million, Qatar has emerged as a key mediator in West Asia. Over the years, Qatar has leveraged its vast oil and gas wealth to build one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Historically, Iraq once played a similar prominent role in West Asia. During its golden era, Iraq was the heart of the Abbasid Caliphate, excelling in trade, culture, and technology.

Its capital, Baghdad, was the region's most prosperous city. However, Iraq's decline began under Ottoman rule and worsened after World War I, when Britain took control. Decades of political instability followed, culminating in the rise of Saddam Hussein in 1979.

Under Saddam, Iraq experienced initial stability but suffered greatly from wars with Iran and Kuwait. These conflicts, along with the US invasion in 2003, left Iraq in economic and political ruin. Today, Iraq struggles to regain its former glory.

Meanwhile, Turkey has risen as the most influential Islamic nation in 2024. With a rapidly growing defence industry and significant economic expansion, Turkey has solidified its global standing. Its defence exports tripled between 2014 and 2023, placing the country 11th globally. Additionally, Turkey's economy grew by 5.7% in early 2024, underscoring its strength in the region.