Proposed terms for F-35 jet sales to Turkey in the 2026 defense legislation by the U.S. Congress

In a series of amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the US Congress is exerting pressure on the Trump administration to impose restrictions on arms sales to Turkey, particularly the F-35 fighter jets.

The proposed legislation aims to ensure that US-made weapons are not used in Turkish Cyprus, and it requires Turkey to disclose all American-origin systems used in the region. The amendments also prohibit defense cooperation between Turkey and US rivals like Russia.

The Trump administration maintains the F-35 ban on Turkey amidst congressional pressure, as tensions between the two nations continue to rise. The ban follows pressure from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Spanish analysts, who are considering the Turkish KAAN fighter as an alternative after the cancellation of the F-35 program for Turkey.

The amendments further demand certification that Turkey is not engaging in military threats to Israel and is not conducting military cooperation with Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. The military cooperation between Turkey and these potential adversaries is complex, with competing roles in conflicts like Libya and Syria, often supporting opposing sides without direct collaboration.

Another amendment calls for detailed investigations by the State, Defense, and Treasury departments on whether Turkey is harboring Hamas members or financial assets, or permitting Hamas officials to operate from its territory. The U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, Thomas Barrack, recently described Ankara as "amazingly cooperative" in recent diplomatic efforts with Hamas.

The proposed legislation also demands that Turkey stops alleged violations of Greece and Greek Cyprus. The joint report requested within 180 days would assess security risks to the U.S. and allies, activities of groups including Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran's Revolutionary Guards, terrorism history, threats to U.S. personnel and bases, and Turkey's responses to these threats.

The restrictions on arms sales to Turkey, including F-35 fighter jets, would remain in effect for five years unless certain conditions are met. The amendments require the White House to certify that Turkey is not materially supporting Hamas or any of its affiliates.

As the UAE pivots from F-35 hopes to KF-21 and KAAN fighter programs, these amendments could significantly impact Turkey's military capabilities and strategic alliances. The outcome of these congressional actions remains to be seen, but they underscore the growing tensions between the US and Turkey and the ongoing efforts to manage these complex geopolitical relationships.