Marco Rubio Discusses F-35 Jets for Turkey, Regional Ties, and Iran

In an interview with the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed pressing Middle Eastern issues, primarily focusing on the question of F-35 fighter jet supplies to Turkey, the tightening of security ties with Greece, and the ongoing campaign against Iran.

When asked about the advanced fighter jets Ankara purchased, Rubio clarified that although US President Donald Trump wants Turkey to receive the jets it paid for, American law and legislative restrictions do not permit it. "There is a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that sets very strict conditions. Until those conditions are met, the sale cannot proceed," he said.

He stated that the issue revolves around the Russian S-400 air defense system purchased by Turkey, and as long as this matter is not resolved, the transfer remains impossible—though solutions may potentially be found in the future.

Security Ties and Regional Alliances

Meanwhile, Turkish media published new footage showing F-35 aircraft allegedly destined for Ankara waiting in hangars in the United States. Asked about the close security relations developed between Greece and Israel, Rubio responded briefly that the US views this "very positively."

"The United States views the security cooperation between Greece and Israel very favorably, while maintaining strong partnerships across the Middle East and the Gulf region," Rubio noted.

Regarding Greece's request to purchase specialized weaponry for its F-35 jets, some identical to Israeli counterparts, Rubio noted that the matter is being examined seriously given Greece's status as an important ally, though a final decision will be made in due course by the President.

The Iranian Threat and Economic Pressure

On the subject of Iran, Rubio emphasized that the supreme goal has been and remains ensuring it never acquires nuclear weapons. He stated that Iran attempted to conceal a massive array of missiles and drones to create a "conventional shield" that would allow it to quietly develop its nuclear program, but this activity was thwarted.

Rubio pointed out that Iran is suffering from unprecedented economic pressure, leaving it facing an economic collapse that will worsen in the coming weeks into "the most economic disaster in the history of modern Iran," blaming the radical Shia clerics running the country.

• Supreme goal: Prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

• Economic crisis: Severe pressure leading towards historic collapse.

• US stance: Firm opposition under President Donald Trump.

"Now they will have to decide whether they are a country or a revolution, but one decision will never be allowed to them—acquiring nuclear weapons. It simply will not happen as long as President Trump is in office," he concluded.