Politis

Messages from the Trump-Netanyahu Meeting and How Turkey 'Gained Ground' Despite Being Absent

Published December 30, 2025, 07:22
Messages from the Trump-Netanyahu Meeting and How Turkey 'Gained Ground' Despite Being Absent

The meeting between Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago was primarily a display of public support and goodwill, with limited substantive progress on key issues. The two leaders emphasized the “special relationship” between Israel and the US, but disagreements regarding Gaza and the “day after” remain. Trump avoided committing to specific actions, keeping his options open regarding Iran. The most important message from the meeting was the reaffirmation of US support for Israel, with Trump repeatedly calling Netanyahu a “hero.” However, there was no clarity regarding the administration of Gaza after the war or the situation in the occupied West Bank. This ambiguity from the US side is considered a strategic choice. Despite its absence, Turkey is emerging as a significant player in the region, as Ankara is returning as a necessary interlocutor in both the Syrian and Palestinian issues. Turkey appears to be gaining ground, as the US recognizes it as a force that cannot be ignored. The meeting took place shortly before the Pentagon announced a nearly $9 billion contract with Boeing for the construction of new F-15 fighter jets for Israel, underscoring the continued US military support for Israel.