Trump Dismisses Netanyahu's Objections to Potential US F-35 Sale to Turkey

US President Donald Trump has brushed aside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's opposition to a possible sale of American F-35 stealth fighter jets to Turkey, asserting that the United States alone will decide its defence export policy. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump responded to concerns raised by Netanyahu by saying, "Nobody tells me what we should be selling," underlining that Washington's military sales decisions will not be dictated by any foreign government.

The remarks come after Netanyahu publicly expressed concern over reports that the US could consider supplying F-35 fighter aircraft to Turkey. The Israeli leader warned that such a move could upset the military balance in the Middle East, noting that Turkey's policies in recent years have not aligned with Israel's security interests. 

Trump, however, defended Turkey's importance as a strategic partner, describing it as a valuable ally while making it clear that American national interests would guide any future defence agreements. Despite his comments, there has been no official announcement confirming that the US has approved the sale of F-35 jets to Ankara.

Turkey was originally a partner in the F-35 programme but was removed in 2019 after purchasing the Russian-made S-400 air defence system. The move triggered US sanctions and halted the planned delivery of the fifth-generation fighter aircraft to Ankara. Since then, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has repeatedly sought to restore defence cooperation with Washington.

The potential revival of F-35 discussions has raised concerns in Israel, which currently enjoys a qualitative military edge in the region and operates the advanced stealth aircraft. Israeli officials believe providing the same platform to Turkey could alter the regional security landscape. The issue is expected to feature in broader discussions between Trump and Netanyahu as both leaders continue consultations on regional security, including developments involving Iran, Syria and the wider Middle East. While Trump's comments signal openness to strengthening defence ties with Turkey, any actual deal would still require the US administration to address legal, strategic and security considerations before moving forward.