Erdoğan expects Trump to fulfill F-35 promise

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan outlined Turkey's foreign policy priorities and regional stances in a recent interview with Al Jazeera. He affirmed Turkey's commitment to ensuring stability in Syria, stating he would visit the country soon and that Syrian Kurds would benefit from peace.

Erdogan highlighted the "Mecca Joint Defense Agreement" signed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, noting its provision for joint action against external aggression and suggesting Egypt might join. He emphasized the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as a priority for Turkey, stating its closure serves no party's interests and acknowledging Qatar's role in regional mediation efforts.

Addressing the situation in Gaza, Erdogan pledged continued support from Turkey, asserting that Hamas has acted in good faith while Israel continues its conflict. He expressed serious concern over Israeli actions in Lebanon and pointed to Washington's importance in ending the conflicts. Regarding Libya, he reiterated Turkey's stable relationship and declared, "Turkey will not abandon Libya."

On Turkey-EU relations, Erdogan suggested the EU appeared unwilling to accept Turkey's membership, stating it was no longer a priority for Ankara and that Europe would be the loser. He also touched upon the F-35 fighter jet issue, revealing he received a promise from former U.S. President Donald Trump for the jets' delivery and expects him to fulfill it.