Populist Surge: Former President's Turkey Trip Sparks Regional Buzz and Domestic Fury

In conclusion, the July 2024 visit of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Turkey, though officially framed as an academic and cultural endeavor, was fundamentally a political event. It successfully allowed the former president to project an image of continued relevance, enjoy a warm reception from the Turkish media and public, and engage with key political figures, all while simultaneously drawing sharp criticism from his rivals within the Iranian political establishment. The trip stands as a recent, tangible example of the complex interplay between Iranian domestic politics and its relationship with its critical neighbor, Turkey.