Trump Pledges F-35 Jets to Turkey to Ensure Neutrality

President Donald Trump stated during a briefing on Wednesday that he personally intervened to persuade Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to remain neutral in the conflict with Iran. Trump identified Erdogan as a prime candidate to join the war on Iran's side due to the Turkish leader's lack of support for Israel. He asserted that Erdogan followed his request to avoid participation in the hostilities.

To secure this neutrality, Trump indicated the United States intends to proceed with the sale of military equipment to Turkey, specifically F-35 fighter jets and F-110 engines for domestic aircraft. The administration is expected to bypass a congressional review for a proposed $750 million jet engine sale. As a further gesture of respect, Trump confirmed he will attend the NATO leaders' summit in Ankara on July 7-8, noting he likely would not have attended without Erdogan's invitation.

These diplomatic maneuvers occur amid severe tension between Turkey and Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently labeled Erdogan an antisemitic tyrant after Turkey accused Israel of threatening regional stability. Within the U.S. government, the decision to override congressional review drew criticism from Representative Gregory Meeks, who argued the State Department failed to justify the move. Vice President JD Vance stated the administration is reviewing the sale to ensure it complies with American law.