Israel's Security Establishment Worries Over F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia

Israel's security establishment is reportedly opposing a potential deal for the United States to sell 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, fearing it could undermine the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) qualitative military edge in the Middle East. The concerns were revealed by Kan News on Friday, though official Israeli channels have remained silent on the matter.

The US State Department announced its approval of the potential sale, valued at $24.3 billion, which includes 48 aircraft, 49 engines, and associated equipment, pending Congressional review. The State Department stated the deal would enhance Saudi Arabia's deterrence capabilities against current and future threats and improve the Saudi Air Force's interoperability with regional and NATO forces. It also noted Saudi Arabia's contribution to regional political and economic stability, asserting that the transaction would not disrupt the military balance of power in the Middle East.

Previously, the US administration had linked advanced arms sales to Saudi Arabia with progress in normalization efforts with Israel. However, the recent approval appears to proceed independently of such conditions, raising concerns within Israel's defense circles about the long-term implications for regional security dynamics.