Istanbul...the standard of English by ATC is abysmal; when clarification of butchered communication is requested, anger and even quicker, more mangled com is the response. Also, clearance to the short runway at the last minute (around 7000', usually with tailwind) is given (& we tanker fuel, making performance critical). Insistance on long runway (36) results in 30 min hold. Ground control, tower, & radar all BAD.