Trump Dismisses Netanyahu’s Objections to Possible F-35 Sale to Turkey

US President Donald Trump has publicly rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s opposition to a potential sale of American F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, declaring that no foreign leader will dictate Washington’s arms export decisions.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Monday, Trump said: “Nobody tells me what we should be selling.” He described Turkey as “a tremendous ally” and praised its leadership, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, whom he called a friend. Trump also highlighted Ankara’s role in regional matters, including Syria, and noted that Turkey has a “tremendous military.”

The remarks came as Netanyahu arrived in Washington for high-level talks expected to focus on Iran, regional security and broader Middle East issues. The comments underscore a clear difference between the two close allies on the question of advanced military sales to Ankara.

Turkey was removed from the F-35 program in 2019 after purchasing Russia’s S-400 air defense system, a move that led to US sanctions. Trump has signaled he is open to reversing those restrictions and readmitting Turkey to the program, saying earlier this month at a NATO summit in Ankara that such a sale was “certainly something we will consider.” He has also indicated plans to lift related sanctions.

Netanyahu has strongly opposed the idea. In recent interviews, including with CNN, he warned that providing Turkey with the advanced stealth fighters would “destroy the power balance in the Middle East” and could encourage aggression, describing Ankara as having “aggressive aspirations.” He has urged Trump against the sale.

Trump acknowledged that Turkey is “not a big fan” of Israel or Netanyahu but stressed that US-Turkey relations remain strong. The F-35 is widely regarded as one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, and Israel is currently the only Middle Eastern operator of the aircraft.

The potential deal continues to face practical hurdles, including outstanding conditions related to the S-400 system, according to US officials. Talks between Trump and Netanyahu are expected to address a range of security topics amid the reported disagreement over Turkey.