President Donald Trump asserted that he alone will decide whether the United States sells F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, Israel's regional rival, ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump addressed questions regarding Israel's opposition to the potential sale of advanced fighter jets to Turkey. "Turkey has been a great ally, for me," Trump said. "Nobody tells me what we should be selling or not. Turkey has been a tremendous ally."
Trump also emphasized the critical role of U.S. support for Israel, stating, "Israel would have been terminated months ago, and years ago, if I didn't terminate the Obama horrible [Iran] deal." He further noted the strained relationship between the two nations, observing, "Turkey is not a big fan of Israel, you know that, right? And not a big fan of Bibi."
Relations between Turkey and Israel have deteriorated significantly over the past two years. Netanyahu has characterized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government as being influenced by the Muslim Brotherhood and has accused Erdogan of calling for Israel's annihilation. Israel's objection to the F-35 sale stems from concerns that it would disrupt the regional balance of power.
Despite Trump's apparent openness to the sale, U.S. law currently prohibits it. Turkey was removed from the F-35 program in 2019 after purchasing the Russian S-400 air defense system, and Congress subsequently passed legislation barring any future sales. The State Department recently informed Congress that Turkey has not met the legal requirements for any potential F-35 aircraft transfer.
Earlier in the month, during a visit to Ankara, Trump indicated that sanctions previously imposed on Turkey would be lifted, telling reporters that the U.S. does not sanction its allies. However, any reversal of the ban would require congressional action, as the prohibition has bipartisan support.
Netanyahu is scheduled to meet privately with Trump at the White House following his arrival in Washington for the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham. Netanyahu has been a key international partner for Trump, particularly since the launch of their joint campaign against Iran in February. This alliance has faced recent strain, with Trump reportedly expressing frustration over perceived Israeli efforts to prolong the conflict and hinder a settlement with Tehran.
Turkey, meanwhile, did not join the U.S. and Israeli campaign against Iran, instead positioning itself as a mediator. Turkish officials facilitated communications between Washington and Tehran throughout the spring to encourage direct talks. Erdogan's government has also engaged with White House envoy Steve Witkoff, in conjunction with Egypt and Pakistan. Following a call with Erdogan in May, Trump described the conversation as productive and their relationship as strong.