President Donald Trump, in a statement reported by N12, said he loves Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but noted that Netanyahu had made critical remarks about Turkey on Tuesday. Trump also praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, calling him 'great' for refraining from joining the war against Israel, and credited his own influence for Turkey's decision.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday again praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and claimed credit for Turkey's decision to stay out of the war against Israel, while also referencing remarks by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu critical of Turkey. In a statement reported by N12, Trump said: 'I love Bibi, he said bad things about Turkey yesterday. Erdogan is great — he didn't join the war because of me.'
The comment adds to a series of Trump statements on Turkey and Erdogan dating back to June. Earlier this week, Netanyahu told CNN that Turkey is not a 'friendly country' to the U.S., hours after Trump had praised Erdogan. Trump has repeatedly called Erdogan a 'friend' and a 'great leader,' and claimed that he personally asked Erdogan to stay out of the Iran war, a assertion the Turkish president has not disputed.
The new remark marks the first time Trump has publicly acknowledged Netanyahu's criticism of Turkey, while maintaining his affection for the Israeli leader. The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu remains close, as Trump has consistently expressed support for Netanyahu's leadership. The statement also underscores Trump's ongoing effort to position himself as a key intermediary in regional dynamics, particularly regarding Turkey's role in the conflict.
2 developments
- DevelopingNetanyahu tells CNN Turkey is not a 'friendly country' to the US, hours after Trump praised Erdogan
- DevelopingTrump says he will speak with Turkey, calls Erdogan 'great'
- DevelopingTrump says ties with Netanyahu are 'excellent,' denies frustration
- StrongTrump reveals Turkey considered joining Iran war, says he asked Erdogan to stay out
Source and signal
- Internal intake