Erdogan Signals Turkey's Capability and Renewed US Ties on F-35 and Security Cooperation

At the conclusion of the NATO summit in Ankara on July 8, 2026, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered strong messages regarding the conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, while also revealing a renewed rapprochement with former US President Donald Trump concerning F-35 fighter jets and broader security cooperation.

Erdogan acknowledged the challenges in the ongoing negotiations with Iran but emphasized the importance of maintaining the will to reach a peaceful solution, expressing hope that reason will ultimately prevail. He also voiced concern over the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, stating Turkey does not want it to become a war zone.

Addressing the conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza, Erdogan sharply criticized Israel. He highlighted that nearly 5,000 people have died in Lebanon since March 2 due to ongoing attacks, causing displacement and destruction of cities. Regarding Gaza, he stated that 73,000 innocent civilians, mostly women and children, have been killed amid continuous occupation and repression. Erdogan condemned those who rely on regional instability for security and warned against rewarding war-mongering mentalities regardless of their origin.

On US-Turkey relations, Erdogan noted that American sanctions against Turkey are currently not enforced and have largely been lifted. He praised Trump’s positive stance on the F-35 issue, expressing optimism that once Turkey receives the jets, the US will be seen as having fulfilled its commitments. Erdogan also mentioned direct communications with Trump, who reportedly responds within 24 hours to Turkish inquiries.

Further, Erdogan discussed talks about the F-110 engines for Turkey’s KAAN fighter jets, with Trump showing a positive approach. He revealed discussions on expanding security-industrial cooperation with the US, including Turkey potentially advancing in building frigates, corvettes, and submarines at its shipyards. Erdogan concluded confidently, "Turkey can do these things," signaling Turkey’s growing defense capabilities and strategic ambitions.