CNN reported that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned that selling F-35 Jets to Turkey would destroy the power balance in the Middle East.

The report is based on comments by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who argued that selling U.S. F-35 stealth fighter jets to Turkey would undermine the regional military balance. His remarks come amid discussions in Washington about whether Turkey could rejoin the F-35 program after years of exclusion. 

What did Netanyahu say?

Netanyahu said he believes the United States should not provide F-35 fighter jets or their engines to Turkey, because doing so would "upset the power balance in the Middle East." He argued that Israel's qualitative military advantage—especially its air superiority—is an important part of regional stability. 

Why was Turkey removed from the F-35 program?

Turkey was originally a partner in the F-35 program, but in 2019 the U.S. removed it after Ankara purchased the Russian-made S-400 air-defense system. U.S. officials feared that operating the S-400 alongside the F-35 could expose sensitive information about the aircraft to Russia. 

Why does Israel oppose the sale?

Israel's concerns include:

Maintaining its long-standing qualitative military edge in the Middle East.

Increasing political tensions between Israel and Turkey in recent years.

Concerns about advanced stealth aircraft being operated by a country whose leadership has been sharply critical of Israel. 


What is the U.S. position?

Reports indicate that President Donald Trump has signaled openness to reconsidering Turkey's participation in the F-35 program. However:

No final decision has been announced.

U.S. law and many members of Congress continue to oppose restoring F-35 sales while Turkey retains the S-400 system. 


Why is this important?

If Turkey eventually receives F-35s:

Turkey's air force would gain one of the world's most advanced stealth fighter aircraft.

Israel fears this could reduce its military advantage in the region.

The issue could also affect U.S. relations with both Israel and Turkey, two important American partners.


Bottom line

This is currently a policy debate rather than a finalized arms deal. Netanyahu has publicly urged the United States not to sell F-35s to Turkey, warning it could alter the regional military balance. The U.S. administration has indicated it is considering changes, but legal, political, and strategic hurdles remain before any sale could proceed. 

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