Trump says he stopped Turkey joining Iran conflict, praises Erdogan, Netanyahu
What happened: On July 8, 2026, former US President Donald Trump told reporters at the NATO summit in Ankara that he personally persuaded Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to keep Turkey out of a recent conflict involving Iran. Trump praised Erdogan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as terrific leaders, noting Turkeys strong military and its attempt to buy US F-35 fighters, while insisting his diplomacy prevented Ankara from siding with Iran.
Why it matters to Nigerians: Nigerias economy is highly sensitive to global oil prices; any escalation in the Middle East can push crude prices up, raising fuel costs and inflation at home. The country also maintains diplomatic and trade ties with Turkey, Israel and Iran, so regional instability could affect foreign investment, aid flows and the safety of Nigerians living or working in those countries.
What Nigerians should know or do: Monitor global oil price trends and official statements from Nigerias Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Middle East developments. Consider budgeting for possible fuel price changes and stay informed through reliable news sources about any shifts in regional alliances that could affect Nigerians abroad.