Netanyahu Warns Against US F-35 Sale to Turkey

WASHINGTON: (Web Desk) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that a potential US decision to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to Türkiye could significantly alter the balance of power in the Middle East.

Netanyahu made the remarks on Tuesday after US President Donald Trump said he was considering allowing Türkiye to acquire the advanced aircraft, despite Ankara’s removal from the F-35 programme in 2019 following its purchase of a Russian air defence system.

Speaking in a televised interview, Netanyahu said the transfer of F-35 jets could increase regional tensions, arguing that Türkiye’s policies could lead to greater instability.

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Türkiye has been seeking reinstatement in the F-35 programme for years and has also called for the removal of US sanctions that have affected defence cooperation and military projects.

The dispute over the aircraft began after Ankara purchased the Russian S-400 missile system, prompting Washington to suspend Türkiye’s participation in the F-35 programme.

Netanyahu has previously opposed supplying the fighter jets to Türkiye, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has expressed confidence that his close relationship with Trump could help resolve the issue.

Erdoğan’s government has been seeking the delivery of five F-35 aircraft for which Türkiye has already made payments.