Erdogan Rejects Israeli Objections to Turkey's F-35 Purchase

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan downplayed the significance of Israel and Greece's opposition to Turkey's acquisition of American F-35 fighter jets, stating their objections hold no place in his worldview.

Speaking at a press conference after the conclusion of the NATO summit hosted in Ankara, Erdogan emphasized that Turkey has the right to purchase military aircraft and equipment and is engaged in ongoing discussions regarding these acquisitions.

He stressed that the priority in the Middle East should be to maintain the political will aimed at resolving existing conflicts and tensions, while also calling for the prompt removal of restrictions still imposed on the trade of defense industry products among NATO member states.

Erdogan highlighted that Turkey is among the few NATO countries that produce its own fighter jets, tanks, and warships, and develops its air defense systems using national capabilities.

He affirmed that Turkey has consistently fulfilled its duties within the alliance, taking on responsibilities and bearing costs when necessary.

The president added that Turkey’s NATO membership has enhanced not only its geopolitical position but also its military expertise, which has been honed through two millennia of warfare experience.

Describing the summit as "historic," Erdogan noted that this was the second time Turkey hosted the NATO summit since joining the alliance, and the first time it was held in Ankara.

He regarded the participation of all member states' leaders as a reflection of the confidence in Turkey and the stature its diplomacy has achieved.

Erdogan explained that the summit took place amid significant challenges to Euro-Atlantic security and contributed to shaping the future direction of the alliance.

He observed that Ankara established foundations during the summit for NATO in which European allies would assume greater responsibilities and military capabilities would be strengthened through a fairer distribution of burdens.