The Struma Incident: Refugees, Wartime Diplomacy, and Türkiye’s Neutral Struggle
The Struma incident of 1941-1942 represents a tragic and complex episode during World War II, highlighting the intersection of geopolitical maneuvering, humanitarian crises, and wartime demands. This study examines Türkiye’s role in the Struma crisis, where a vessel carrying 769 Jewish refugees from Romania sought passage through Turkish waters to reach Palestine. Despite Türkiye’s neutral stance in the war and its humanitarian efforts, the incident underscores the limitations of international politics and strategic interests. The British government’s refusal to issue visas for Palestine, coupled with pressure from both the Allied and Axis powers, placed Türkiye in a precarious position. Turkish decision-makers navigated this crisis with a focus on national security and neutrality while attempting to address the dire conditions aboard the Struma.
This paper also examines the crisis management processes employed by Turkish authorities, highlighting their efforts to balance humanitarian concerns with the strategic imperatives of wartime diplomacy. The complex decision-making environment requires careful consideration of international pressures and domestic stability. Furthermore, this analysis explores how the Struma incident influenced subsequent policies and practices in handling refugee crises, emphasizing the need for robust international cooperation and clear protocols in managing such humanitarian emergencies. Ultimately, the Struma tragedy serves as a poignant case study in the broader context of crisis management, international diplomacy, and refugee protection during times of global conflict.
