Israel opposes US F-35 sale to Turkey, envoy says

Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yahel Leiter, said Israel opposes the sale of US F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, citing security concerns, while expressing little objection to a similar potential sale to Saudi Arabia.

In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Leiter said Ankara’s acquisition of the advanced aircraft would not be “constructive at this time,” noting Israel’s unease with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whom he described as “hostile and belligerent.” However, he acknowledged Turkey’s strategic importance as a NATO member with significant military weight and a critical geographic position.

Leiter said Israel understands Washington’s desire to maintain strong ties with Ankara and aims to build a “functional, practical relationship” that balances Israel’s security needs with Turkey’s role in Western strategy. He added that Israel cannot accept Turkish troop involvement in Gaza or Syria, a position he said the US respects.

Leiter also dismissed concerns over potential US arms deals with Saudi Arabia, saying there is “no indication” Israel’s qualitative military edge would be threatened.