Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged U.S. President Donald Trump to block the sale of F-35 fighter jets and General Electric F100 engines to Türkiye, drawing criticism from observers who view the remarks as an attempt to limit Ankara’s defense capabilities and regional influence.

Speaking in an interview with Fox News on the eve of the NATO Heads of State and Government Summit in Ankara, Netanyahu argued that providing Türkiye with advanced military equipment would alter the regional balance of power and affect what he described as Israel’s military superiority.

“If they are given these (F-35s and jet engines), the balance of power in the Middle East will be disrupted,” Netanyahu claimed, adding that Israel’s air superiority should be preserved.

The comments came as President Donald Trump prepared to travel to Ankara for the NATO summit, where he is expected to hold bilateral talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Defense cooperation and potential military procurement issues are among the topics expected to be discussed during the meeting.

Türkiye's Growing Defense Capabilities

Netanyahu’s remarks have renewed attention on Türkiye’s efforts to modernize its armed forces and strengthen its defense industry.

As a long-standing NATO member with one of the Alliance’s largest armies, Türkiye has repeatedly emphasized its right to acquire the defense systems necessary to protect its national security interests and contribute to collective NATO deterrence.

Ankara has also significantly expanded its indigenous defense industry in recent years, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers while developing advanced drones, naval platforms, missile systems, and next-generation fighter aircraft projects.

Turkish officials have consistently argued that defense cooperation among NATO allies should be guided by alliance solidarity and shared security interests rather than political considerations.

Netanyahu Targets Turkish Criticism of Gaza War

During the interview, Netanyahu linked his opposition to Türkiye’s defense acquisitions to statements made by President Erdoğan and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

Türkiye has emerged as one of the most vocal critics of Israel’s actions in the Palestinian enclave, repeatedly calling for an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access, and accountability for attacks that have caused widespread civilian casualties.

President Erdoğan has frequently accused Israel of committing grave violations of international law in Gaza, while Ankara has intensified diplomatic efforts aimed at securing international recognition of Palestinian rights and ending the conflict.

Remarks on Iran and Regional Politics

Netanyahu also addressed developments related to Iran, commenting on the funeral ceremonies held for the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The Israeli premier claimed that the large crowds attending the funeral did not reflect broad public support for the Iranian government. He further argued that countries represented at the ceremony were not aligned with U.S. interests, while portraying Israel as Washington’s closest partner in the region.

His comments come amid heightened regional tensions following recent military confrontations involving Iran and Israel, as well as ongoing diplomatic efforts by regional actors to prevent further escalation.

Focus Turns to Ankara Summit

Attention is now shifting to the NATO summit in Ankara, where leaders are expected to discuss collective security challenges, defense cooperation, regional conflicts, and the future strategic direction of the Alliance.

The anticipated meeting between Erdoğan and Trump is being closely watched, particularly regarding defense cooperation, bilateral relations, and regional security issues.

Analysts note that Netanyahu’s intervention reflects growing concern in Tel Aviv over Türkiye’s expanding military capabilities, diplomatic influence, and increasingly assertive role in regional affairs. Turkish officials, meanwhile, maintain that Ankara’s defense policies are driven solely by national security requirements and its responsibilities as a key NATO ally.

As NATO leaders gather in Ankara, Türkiye is expected to continue advocating for stronger alliance cooperation while pursuing policies aimed at safeguarding its strategic interests and promoting stability across the wider region. (ILKHA)