In yet another display of personal diplomacy, US President Donald Trump sought to ease tensions between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, both before and during yesterday’s press conference in Florida.
The American president indicated that he intended to discuss with Netanyahu the possibility of deploying Turkish troops to Gaza as part of the proposal for an International Stabilisation Force (ISF), as set out in the US 20-point ceasefire plan. He noted that he enjoys a strong relationship with President Erdoğan and suggested that, should such a deployment be considered beneficial, it could be viewed positively. In this context, he left open the prospect of Turkey’s participation in a ground mission in Gaza, despite the strong objections that have been publicly voiced in Israel regarding such a scenario.
US President Donald Trump says he has great relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan; will talk with Israel's Netanyahu about potential deployment of Turkish forces in Gaza pic.twitter.com/scjlJiqNgU
— TRT World (@trtworld) December 29, 2025
During the press conference, and in response to related questions, Trump said that he knows Erdoğan well and described him as a close friend whom he respects, adding that Netanyahu also holds him in high regard. He emphasised that he does not expect any problems between the two leaders and reiterated his confidence that no rupture would occur between them.
Trump:
— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 29, 2025
I know President Erdogan very well, and as you all know, he’s a very good friend of mine. I respect him, Bibi respects him.
They’re not going to have a problem. They’re not going to have a problem, I know them very well.
He’s done a fantastic job. I’m with him. All… pic.twitter.com/3S2B6gwx52
Trump also referred to developments in Syria and to Syrian–Israeli relations, attributing credit to the Turkish president for his role in weakening extremist elements in the country. He remarked that Erdoğan had played a significant part in these developments, had not sought recognition for his actions, and deserved credit for removing what he described as highly dangerous figures, including the Assad regime. He added that Washington acknowledges Erdoğan’s contribution positively.
Trump on Erdogan and Syria:
— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 29, 2025
Don’t forget, it was President Erdogan that helped very much. He never wanted the credit for it, but he really, really gets a lot of credit.
President Erdogan should get a lot of good credit for what he did. He got rid of some very bad people, and… pic.twitter.com/4vDyP8xnI0
Finally, when asked about the possibility of selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, Trump confirmed that the issue is being examined very seriously by the United States. When Netanyahu was questioned on the same matter, Trump responded in a light-hearted yet reassuring manner, indicating his confidence that such aircraft would not be used against Israel and expressing his belief that no negative developments would arise.
Also read: Trump plans ‘Trump-class’ navy warships
