Former Istanbul mayor Imamoglu calls on Germany to reverse Eurofighter decision

German media report alleging that outgoing German government vetoed the sale of Eurofighter jets to Türkiye following the arrest of former Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu over corruption has become a hot agenda topic in Turkish politics.

In a tweet where he highlighted the importance of Türkiye’s national interests, Imamoglu condemned Germany’s decision to halt the sale of Eurofighter jets to Türkiye. He expressed deep regret over the suspension of the long-anticipated fighter jet delivery to the Turkish air force.

In a message directed at Germany’s incoming government, Imamoglu emphasized that Türkiye is not limited to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan or himself. He wrote on X, “Governments are temporary. Türkiye’s national interests are more valuable than both Erdogan and myself.”

The former mayor was arrested on March 23 over corruption allegations. The accusations against Imamoglu include the questionable acquisition of three villas in one of Istanbul’s prime locations by his family’s construction company, in which he owns 60% of the shares.

According to official documents, a close business associate of Imamoglu purchased the villas on his behalf and transferred the property to Imamoglu’s company after three years at a low price.

‘Reverse Eurofighter decision’

He urged the German government to reconsider its stance, stating, “I respectfully request that you reverse this decision.”

Imamoglu also said the end of Erdogan’s rule is near and promised that Türkiye’s next government would work closely with the European Union and all allies, including Germany, based on mutual interests, the rule of law, and democratic principles. “Under our leadership, there will be no doubt about Türkiye’s full EU membership,” he added.

According to German newspaper Handelsblatt, Berlin’s decision was driven by Imamoglu’s imprisonment. The SPD-Greens coalition reportedly viewed the legal process against him as “an attack on Turkish democracy” and acted jointly to block the fighter jet sale.