Netanyahu Urges US Not to Sell F-35 Jets to Turkey Ahead of Trump-Erdogan NATO Summit

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly opposed the sale of advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Turkey, warning that such a move would disrupt the delicate balance of power in the Middle East, which currently favors Israel's air superiority. In an interview with Fox News ahead of the NATO summit in Turkey, Netanyahu criticized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's leadership, citing Erdogan's public calls for Israel's destruction, occupation of Cyprus, threats to Greece, and ambitions over Jerusalem. Netanyahu also highlighted Turkey's support for Hamas and its failure to assist the US against Iran, contrasting this with Israel's role as a key US ally.

The issue has gained urgency as Erdogan leverages his close ties with US President Donald Trump to secure Turkey's participation in the NATO summit in Ankara, potentially accompanied by a significant "gift", a return to the F-35 procurement program. Trump hinted during a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg that he might approve steps to resume F-35 sales to Turkey, despite Ankara's 2019 expulsion from the program following its purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense systems, which raised US security concerns.

Recent reports indicate the US State Department is moving forward with plans to sell F110 jet engines to Turkey, valued at over $700 million, despite Congressional opposition. Vice President J.D. Vance noted that any sale would require Turkey's compliance with US law. The sale remains controversial among both Republicans and Democrats, given Turkey's continued possession of Russian defense systems.

Erdogan and Trump have maintained frequent communications on regional issues including Syria, Gaza, and broader Middle East dynamics. Turkey also joined Trump's "Peace Council," aimed at managing Gaza affairs and disarming Hamas. Trump recently claimed he urged Erdogan to avoid involvement in any conflict with Iran, though there is no indication Turkey plans to intervene.

The developments come amid escalating tensions between Jerusalem and Ankara, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan labeling Israel a problem for the international community. Netanyahu's firm stance reflects Israel's strategic concerns as the US-Turkey relationship evolves ahead of the NATO summit.