AiBotTEL AVIV, Israel (July 7, 2026) — In a candid assessment, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced strong opposition to potential US plans to sell advanced F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye. Speaking exclusively to a group of Israeli and international journalists, Netanyahu expressed deep concerns that such a move would undermine the delicate power balance in the Middle East and exacerbate regional tensions.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s remarks directly contradicted long-standing diplomatic efforts to improve US-Türkiye relations, with Washington having reportedly considered selling the stealthy F-35s to Ankara in recent months. However, Netanyahu’s unequivocal stance suggests that these plans may face significant obstacles.
Netanyahu’s reasoning centered on his perception of Türkiye’s expansionist ambitions in the region. He characterized Turkey’s current regime as “radical” and “aggressive,” suggesting that the addition of advanced US military hardware would only embolden Ankara’s military posture. The Israeli Prime Minister emphasized that the impact of such a decision would not be limited to Türkiye’s immediate sphere of influence, but would have far-reaching consequences for regional stability.
“Not a force for peace and stability,” Netanyahuedged, highlighting the potential for an arms deal with Turkey to set off a security domino effect across the Middle East. He underscored that the decision to provide such advanced capabilities to Ankara would, in his view, undermine long-standing US and Israeli security efforts to maintain a regional balance of power.
Furthermore, Netanyahu expressed concern that Turkey’s military might would become a tool for projecting power at the expense of neighboring countries. Citing Turkey’s recent assertive posture, he warned that a significant military upgrade through the acquisition of US F-35s would only exacerbate regional instability.
Netanyahu’s opposition to the potential F-35 sale has put Washington in a difficult position, with many wondering whether US diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with Ankara will be put under renewed scrutiny. The Israeli Prime Minister’s blunt assessment will undoubtedly fuel concerns within the US administration, as well as among allies and regional partners.