Netanyahu Urges US Not to Sell F-35 Jets to Turkey, Citing Hamas Funding

Ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's host city, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the United States to halt plans to sell F-35 fighter jets to Turkey. In an interview with Fox News on Monday, Netanyahu expressed deep concerns over Turkey's growing regional involvement, particularly its support for Hamas in Gaza. He criticized Erdogan's regime as influenced by the Muslim Brotherhood ideology, which he described as extremist and anti-American, stating, "A regime infected with the Muslim Brotherhood ideology - an extremist movement that calls for 'death to America' - should not receive aircraft."

Netanyahu also accused Turkey of funding Hamas and failing to assist the US in its conflict with Iran. He warned that selling F-35 jets to Turkey would destabilize the military balance in the Middle East, which currently relies on Israel's air superiority and the US military presence. Netanyahu further condemned Erdogan for openly calling for Israel's destruction, occupying half of Cyprus, and threatening Greece.

This call comes amid reports that US President Donald Trump, who referred to Erdogan as "my friend" and acknowledged Turkey's significant military strength, may proceed with the sale. Israeli military officials have voiced fears that such a sale could severely compromise the Israeli Air Force's operational freedom. The tensions reflect deteriorating Israel-Turkey relations and growing unease over Turkey's regional ambitions and alliances.