US Ambassador Tom Barrack addresses F-35, S-400 and regional geopolitics at Antalya Forum

At the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack discussed the potential reintegration of Turkey into the F-35 fighter program, a prospect he views positively. The return remains contingent on resolving the dispute over Turkey's acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile system, which previously led to US sanctions. Barrack acknowledged historical difficulties regarding the sale of US Patriot missiles but praised Turkey's strategic role within NATO. He contrasted Turkey's situation with Greece, noting that Greece possesses both F-35s and S-300s. Furthermore, the Ambassador commented on regional stability, stating that power is the primary factor respected in the Middle East. He expressed optimism for a potential non-aggression agreement between Syria and Israel. Additionally, Barrack offered praise for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan while stating that Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu acts in his nation's best interest.