President Donald Trump has stated that Israel will have no say in the potential U.S. sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The announcement comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Turkey, with Netanyahu previously condemning Turkey's government as aligned with the Muslim Brotherhood. Trump defended the sale, calling Turkey a 'great ally,' while acknowledging its strained relations with Israel. U.S. law currently bars the sale due to Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 air defense systems in 2019, a move that led to its removal from the F-35 program. The State Department has confirmed Turkey has not met legal conditions for the sale.
Trump's broader stance on Israel includes recognizing Jerusalem as its capital, supporting Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and brokering the Abraham Accords. However, his alignment with Netanyahu has drawn criticism, particularly from U.S. Democrats, who cite concerns over Israel's judicial reforms and the Gaza conflict. Netanyahu's potential re-election could further strain U.S.-Israel relations, as his policies have sparked domestic and international backlash. The October 27 Israeli election is seen as pivotal, with Netanyahu's coalition facing scrutiny over judicial independence, ultra-Orthodox exemptions, and regional security policies.