Trump praises Erdogan amid Turkey-Israel tensions
US President Donald Trump lavished praise on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago. He credited Erdogan with playing a pivotal role in the downfall of Syria's former regime under Bashar al-Assad, declaring that the Turkish leader "did a great job" and "saved the region" without seeking recognition.
Trump highlighted his personal friendship with Erdogan, noting that Netanyahu holds similar respect for him and predicting smooth relations ahead. The remarks underscore shifting regional dynamics, especially against Turkey's vocal condemnation of Israel's Gaza operations, which have resulted in over 71,200 Palestinian deaths since October 2023.
The president also signaled consideration of selling advanced F-35 fighter jets to Turkey and floated the idea of Turkish troops joining Gaza peacekeeping efforts, despite Israeli resistance. Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas, giving it a brief window to disarm or face severe consequences, and cautioned Iran against resuming nuclear or missile development, threatening further US strikes.
