Trump Signals Willingness to Restore Turkey's F-35 Fighter Jet Program Amid Controversy

US President Donald Trump is expected to inform Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that he is prepared to reinstate Turkey into the F-35 stealth fighter jet program, according to a New York Times report citing four senior US officials. Recent intensive behind-the-scenes security discussions have sought ways to overcome legal and political obstacles that have blocked Turkey's participation since 2019, when Trump removed Ankara from the program due to its purchase of the Russian S-400 air defense system.

Despite these efforts, it remains unclear how Trump will circumvent existing restrictions, and the move is likely to face opposition in the US Congress, which fears that Turkey's acquisition of Russian technology could compromise the F-35's stealth capabilities. Trump is expected to at least declare his intention to advance Turkey's return to the program, possibly initiating the process through official correspondence with Erdogan. However, officials caution that Trump's unpredictable nature could lead to last-minute changes.

Trump reportedly plans to present this initiative as a "gift" to Erdogan, reversing his own 2019 decision that was driven by national security concerns. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded critically to the potential deal during a Fox News interview, arguing that supplying Turkey with F-35 jets or their engines would disrupt the regional balance of power and threaten Israel's air superiority. Netanyahu described Erdogan's regime as influenced by the Muslim Brotherhood ideology, which he characterized as hostile to America.

Netanyahu further emphasized Israel's longstanding alliance with the US, contrasting it with Turkey's support for Hamas and lack of assistance against Iran. He acknowledged differences between Israel and the US but stressed their ability to reach compromises based on strong friendship. Netanyahu also highlighted Erdogan's aggressive rhetoric, including threats against Israel, Cyprus, Greece, and Jerusalem, underscoring the complexity of the regional security environment.

The situation remains fluid as the US administration weighs the strategic and political implications of restoring Turkey's role in the F-35 program, with significant opposition expected from Congress and allied nations concerned about the consequences for Middle Eastern security dynamics.