Antiookiakriisi

The Antiookiakriisi, also known as the Antioch Crisis, refers to a significant political and territorial dispute that emerged in the early 20th century. The core of the crisis revolved around the status of the Sanjak of Alexandretta, a region historically part of the Ottoman Empire that included the city of Antioch. Following the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire after World War I, the Sanjak became a point of contention between the newly established Republic of Turkey and the French Mandate of Syria.

France, administering Syria, initially agreed to grant the Sanjak a special autonomous status. However, Turkey maintained its claim, citing historical and demographic ties. The League of Nations played a role in mediating the dispute, proposing various solutions to ensure the rights of different communities within the Sanjak. Tensions escalated in the 1930s, with nationalist sentiments growing on both sides and occasional unrest reported.

In 1936, a compromise was reached, establishing the Republic of Hatay within the French Mandate of Syria, with significant autonomy. This arrangement was intended to satisfy Turkish claims while maintaining Syrian sovereignty. However, the situation remained fragile. In 1939, following a referendum and under pressure from Turkey, the Republic of Hatay voted to join Turkey, becoming the Hatay Province. This transfer of territory remains a sensitive issue in modern regional politics.