Güler Targets Greece and Israel: Blocking Turkey’s F-35s and Armament of Demilitarized Islands

Ankara has resumed its provocative rhetoric, this time through Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, targeting Greece and Israel over military equipment and the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets.

Güler stated that there are reports of the deployment of air defense systems from Israel on demilitarized islands, which, according to him, should not be armed under international agreements. He added that Turkey is taking the necessary measures regarding the situation and warned that opposing parties “should not harbor excessive hopes.”

At the same time, the Turkish minister accused Greece and Israel of blocking Turkey’s F-35 procurement: “We see no issues with acquiring F-16s. Naturally, our priority is the F-35s. We know Israel and Greece are exerting pressure to prevent us from receiving these aircraft,” Güler said.

He also emphasized that Turkey continues its efforts to lift CAATSA sanctions, with dedicated working groups addressing these issues. Güler noted that Turkey and the United States would resolve these matters soon, and relevant updates would be shared when the resolution approaches.

The statements come amid broader tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, concerning both the arming of demilitarized islands and the procurement of advanced fighter jets, which are expected to remain points of friction between Turkey, Greece, and international partners.

Source: pagenews.gr