Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a sharp statement on Tuesday, raising serious concerns over Turkey’s ambitions in Syria and reaffirming Israel’s uncompromising stance on Iran’s nuclear program.
His comments came just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump praised infront of him Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan—a move that sparked criticism.
“Turkey wants to establish military bases in Syria. This is a threat to Israel. We’re opposed to this and acting against it.” said Netanyahu, emphasizing that Israel is actively working against these plans.
Netanyahu also referenced his friendship with Trump:
“I told President Trump—who is my friend, just as he is Erdoğan’s—‘If we need your help, we will let you know.’”
The timing is critical. Trump’s warm remarks about Erdoğan during his Oval Office meeting with Netanyahu on Monday triggered backlash, as many believe the U.S. president downplays Turkey’s military actions in Syria and human rights concerns.
On Iran, Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s red line: Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons.
He laid out two options—a comprehensive agreement or military intervention. Referring to Libya’s denuclearization in 2003, he insisted that only a deal under full U.S. supervision and enforcement is acceptable.
“We go in, dismantle the facilities, and remove all equipment. That’s the ideal scenario.”
He concluded with a warning:
“If negotiations drag on, which we don’t want, the military option becomes the only option.”
Netanyahu’s remarks reflect rising tensions in the region and Israel’s dissatisfaction with U.S.-Turkey rapprochement. Despite close ties with Trump, Israel seems ready to act independently, especially regarding threats from Syria and Iran.
