Netanyahu Warns Against Advanced U.S. Arms Sales to Turkey, Calls Erdogan a Threat to Regional Stability

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged the United States not to approve advanced fighter aircraft and engine sales to Turkey, warning that such a move would undermine Israel's military edge and shift the balance of power in the Middle East. During an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu also discussed Iran, U.S.-Israel relations, Lebanon, and regional security.", "body": "

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned against the sale of advanced American military technology to Turkey, arguing that it would threaten Israel's qualitative military advantage and destabilize the balance of power in the Middle East.

Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu described Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government as 'a regime infected by the Muslim Brotherhood' and urged Washington not to approve the transfer of F-35 fighter jets or F110 fighter jet engines to Ankara.

"I don't think they should be given F-35s or engines for their fighter jets," Netanyahu said.

The comments come after reports that President Donald Trump has indicated support for supplying Turkey with F110 fighter jet engines and potentially allowing Ankara to rejoin the F-35 program ahead of the upcoming NATO summit.

Netanyahu warned that such a decision would upset the regional balance of power, emphasizing that Israel's air superiority remains a key pillar of regional security and America's strategic posture in the Middle East.

While describing Turkey as 'a great country,' Netanyahu criticized Erdogan, noting that the Turkish leader has repeatedly threatened Israel and continues to occupy northern Cyprus.

Strong U.S.-Israel Alliance

Netanyahu dismissed speculation about tensions between Jerusalem and Washington over the recent U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding, saying the two allies remain closely aligned.

"We see eye-to-eye on just about everything. We have disagreements from time to time, but we work them out because we're allies," Netanyahu said.

He added that Israel and the United States resolve differences through direct discussions built on mutual respect.

Iran Remains the Central Threat

Netanyahu reiterated that Iran must never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons or the means to deliver them, calling the struggle against the Islamic Republic a battle between freedom and fanaticism.

He also argued that recent blows to Iran and its regional terror network have created new opportunities for broader peace efforts, including potential progress with Lebanon.

Concluding the interview, Netanyahu praised the United States as a force for freedom around the world and reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Israel alliance.