U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham Comments on F-35s for Türkiye

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham stated in his remarks on F-35 sales that he supports the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, but believes that providing these aircraft to Türkiye would be a mistake.

Graham’s comments have reignited debates over the United States’ defense relations with its Middle Eastern partners and NATO allies. While the potential sale of F-35s to Saudi Arabia is being discussed in Congress with differing opinions, Türkiye’s removal from the F-35 program following its purchase of the S-400 air defense system continues to be debated.

After acquiring the Russian-made S-400 system, Türkiye was excluded from the F-35 program and deliveries were halted. Graham’s remarks have also drawn significant backlash on social media.