Israeli Ambassador Opposes F-35 Sale to Turkey but Will Respect US Decision

Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, clearly opposed the potential US sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, stating Israel does not believe Turkey should possess these aircraft. Speaking at a Council on Foreign Relations event in Washington, Leiter emphasized that while Israel has never hidden its stance, it understands the US administration must weigh broader strategic considerations before making a decision.

This statement comes amid renewed discussions in Washington about advancing an F-35 deal with Turkey, a move that has raised concerns in Jerusalem due to ongoing tensions between the countries and fears it could undermine Israel's qualitative military edge in the region. Concurrently, Israel's Foreign Ministry sharply criticized Turkey on social media for suppressing opposition leaders, silencing journalists, banning protests, and censoring independent media ahead of the NATO summit.

Leiter also addressed security arrangements on Israel's northern border, highlighting that the trilateral agreement between Israel, Lebanon, and the US supersedes previous US-Lebanon understandings. He stressed Israel will only withdraw when Hezbollah is disarmed, which would allow Lebanon to achieve full sovereignty.

Regarding Iran, Leiter said Israel's primary responsibility is national security, not global issues like the Strait of Hormuz or worldwide economic slowdowns. He noted that while the US has broader responsibilities, Israel's interests focus on its own security. Leiter estimated that only 20% of Iranians support their regime, with 80-85% opposed, acknowledging that totalitarian regimes do not last forever but the timing of change in Iran is uncertain.

Responding to US Vice President Kamala Harris's comment that the US is Israel's only remaining ally, Leiter disagreed, citing strong ties with India, the UAE, Azerbaijan, and Armenia. He noted recent tensions with Azerbaijan following Israel's recognition of the Armenian genocide but affirmed Israel maintains good relations with multiple countries beyond the US.