State Department: Turkey Still Does Not Meet Conditions for F-35 Jets

The United States State Department has officially confirmed that Turkey has not yet fulfilled the necessary conditions stipulated by U.S. law for the potential transfer of F-35 fighter jets. This position is outlined in a formal response from the State Department's Office of Legislative Affairs to Democratic Congressman Wesley Bell.

Bell had requested an update on U.S.-Turkey relations, including issues related to CAATSA sanctions, the F-35 program, and Turkey's ties with Hamas. The State Department's letter, sent on behalf of President Donald Trump, reiterated the U.S. government's official stance. The policy is governed by Section 231 of the CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) and Section 1245 of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2020.

According to the letter, before any F-35s can be transferred to Turkey, Ankara must fully comply with legal requirements. This includes ceasing possession of the Russian S-400 air defense system and related equipment, providing assurances against future acquisition, and meeting all certification requirements mandated by U.S. law. The State Department emphasized that these prerequisites have not yet been met and that any resolution regarding the S-400s must be transparent, lawful, and aligned with U.S. national security interests.

The U.S. also noted that following President Trump's meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara, the U.S. will continue to work with Turkey on resolving the S-400 issue and enhancing NATO cooperation. While acknowledging shared security concerns and balanced trade relations, Washington will hold Ankara accountable when its actions undermine U.S. interests. The State Department also acknowledged ongoing U.S. concerns regarding Turkey's relationship with Hamas, while noting Ankara's contribution to advancing the Gaza peace plan through its contacts with Hamas leadership.