US President Donald Trump confidently declares his willingness to act as a mediator between Israel and Turkey, two nations seemingly readying themselves for a struggle over influence in Syria.
Trump emphasizes his outstanding relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a leader he holds in high regard and describes as extraordinarily intelligent.
aTrump recounts how he praised Erdogan for accomplishing what he claims no one else has achieved in 2,000 years—dominating Syria—referring to the successful overthrow of the Assad regime by Islamic rebels, whom Trump identified as proxies for Turkey.
Trump tells Netanyahu, who has a bitter relationship with Erdogan, that he can mediate.
“Any problem that you have with Turkey, I think we can solve, as long as you are reasonable, you have to be reasonable,” he tells Netanyahu.
President Donald Trump said Monday the U.S. will hold direct talks with Iran about its nuclear program, while warning Tehran it would be in “great danger” if the talks aren’t successful.
The president, in comments to reporters after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said the talks will start Saturday. He insisted Tehran can’t get nuclear weapons.
“We’re dealing with them directly and maybe a deal is going to be made,” Trump said. He added that “doing a deal would be preferable to doing the obvious.”
Asked if he would commit to military action against Iran should his negotiators be unable to come to terms with Tehran, Trump responded that “Iran is going to be in great danger, and I hate to say it.”
“If the talks aren’t successful, I think it’s going to be a very bad day for Iran,” Trump said.