Erdoğan seeks positive US decision on F-35 jets after Ankara talks

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said Türkiye is seeking to help stabilise relations between Iran and the United States, while also expressing hope for a positive outcome from Washington on the long-standing issue of F-35 fighter jets.

Speaking at a meeting in Ankara with US President Donald Trump, Erdoğan said Ankara is working to bring Iran-US relations to what he described as “a certain level,” as part of broader efforts to support global stability.

“We are striving to bring Iran-US relations to a certain level. We are all working together to contribute to peace around the world to the greatest extent possible,” Erdoğan said.

Erdogan also said he expects progress on Türkiye’s request to acquire F-35 fighter jets, a matter that has remained unresolved for several years.

“I hope that following this summit a positive decision will be made on the F-35 issue,” he said.

The Turkish leader noted that the dispute over the aircraft is not new, adding that previous discussions with Washington included assurances regarding deliveries.

“We have discussed it with the US before and received a promise for the delivery of five aircraft. <...> Mr. Trump always keeps his word.”

By Tamilla Hasanova