Netanyahu warns US F-35 sale to Turkey could upset Middle East balance

Washington – On Tuesday President Donald Trump announced that the United States is prepared to proceed with the sale of F‑35 stealth fighter jets to Turkey, a step that would reverse a 2019 suspension of the program after Turkey’s acquisition of a Russian S‑400 air‑defence system. The proposal comes amid ongoing negotiations over Turkey’s participation in the NATO‑led fighter program and follows a broader U.S. effort to strengthen defense ties with its NATO ally.

Lawmakers are expected to mount strong opposition in Congress, citing concerns over technology security, the precedent set by Turkey’s earlier procurement of Russian equipment, and the potential impact on regional stability. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the transfer would “destroy” the balance of power in the Middle East, reflecting Israel’s longstanding objection to advanced U.S. weapons reaching Ankara. The administration is expected to address congressional scrutiny and allied objections in the coming weeks as it evaluates the strategic and diplomatic ramifications of the sale.