Netanyahu Warns F35 Sale to Turkey Would Destabilize Middle East Power Balance

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed strong opposition to a potential U.S. sale of F35 fighter jets to Turkey during an interview with CNN on July 7, 2026. He warned that such a deal would "destroy the balance of power in the Middle East" and said he personally advised U.S. President Donald Trump against it. Netanyahu emphasized that Turkey is not a friendly state to Israel and criticized the improving relations between Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, stating it makes Turkey appear friendly to the U.S., but in reality, it is the opposite.

Netanyahu accused Turkey of being influenced by the Muslim Brotherhood, which he described as hostile to the U.S., and condemned Erdogan's regime for supporting and funding Hamas, imprisoning journalists, threatening NATO ally Greece, and posing a threat to Israel. He suggested that Turkey aims to revive the Ottoman Empire, which historically included Syria, parts of Jordan, all of modern Israel, and Gulf states, warning that empowering such a radical regime with advanced military technology would lead to increased aggression.

Regarding his relationship with Trump, Netanyahu acknowledged occasional disagreements but stressed that the two countries share broad agreement on most issues. He highlighted the strategic differences, noting that the U.S. is a large, distant power while Israel is a small nation surrounded by enemies. Netanyahu's comments reflect ongoing Israeli concerns about Turkey's regional ambitions and the implications of U.S.-Turkey military cooperation.