On Sept. 13, Turkey’s state-run Religious Affairs Directorate (Diyanet) published a 104-page document, “Syria Euphrates Shield and Olive Branch Activity Report.” The publication didn't prompt much discussion, except for a few headlines focusing on mosque repairs in war-torn Syria. The Diyanet has indeed played multiple roles both on Syrian soil and with Syrian refugees in Turkey. Since Ankara's military incursions into Syria began in August 2016, the Diyanet has gradually become the pivotal institution that Ankara leans on for post-conflict stabilization.

In the last decade, the Diyanet evolved as Erdogan’s signature institution on par with Turkey's National Intelligence Organization (MIT). Its budget, personnel and reach, both domestically and internationally, have grown. The Diyanet’s close links with the MIT are well-known. Indeed, currently Germany’s intelligence agency is considering adding the Diyanet to its official watch list. Its imams in Germany are now reportedly advocating for victory against Kurds in Syria.

Allegations that Diyanet mosques engaged in espionage to gather information on Gulenists in the Netherlands and elsewhere in Europe have created tensions with Ankara. Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has also altered the role of the Diyanet in places such as Bulgaria, where there are ethnic Turks and Muslims, raising suspicion and anger in host governments.

A retired cleric who worked for the Diyanet more than 20 years and who did not want to be identified told Al-Monitor, “The Diyanet is the best echo chamber for Erdogan, particularly since 2010." The Diyanet’s budget has jumped significantly since then. "Its activities can always be legitimized under the blanket of humanitarian aid and religious freedom. It is the best place to hide any activity in plain sight. As long as there are Muslims, the Diyanet’s involvement can always be justified. Plus, the Diyanet coordinates, and indeed controls, a long list of government-friendly NGOs [nongovernmental organizations], so the figures published for its spending, hiring and other sorts of expenditures can be spread and concealed from any sort of oversight.”