U.S. warned Turkey and Qatar ahead of Israeli strike on Iran

The United States informed Turkey and Qatar in advance about Israel’s planned airstrike on Iranian targets, Middle East Eye reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. Analysts say the move may have helped prevent a further deterioration in Ankara–Tel Aviv relations.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the Israeli operation, calling it a “dangerous provocation” and a “blatant violation of international law.”

“Israel has taken its strategy of bloodshed and instability to a new and dangerous level,” Erdogan said.
“Its strikes against our neighbor Iran pose a serious threat to regional and global security. The international community must act to stop Israeli aggression.”

Unlike Turkey and Qatar, the United Kingdom was not briefed in advance, according to The Times of London. Tensions between London and Tel Aviv have reportedly increased following UK sanctions on Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir.

An anonymous British official told the newspaper:

“Israel appears to no longer consider the UK a trustworthy ally.”

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for restraint:

“Reports of the strikes are deeply concerning. We urge all parties to step back. Now is the time for diplomacy.”