Israeli Official Issues 'Threat Message' to Turkey Due to F-35

An Israeli senior official warned of the danger of Turkey acquiring American F-35 fighter jets, indicating that this step could be used for offensive purposes against his country and threaten the stability of the region.


The newspaper 'Maariv' quoted the senior official as saying, "Israel will take steps to thwart these intentions if necessary," emphasizing that "Ankara seeks to regain its Ottoman influence, including in Jerusalem."

Maariv explained that the warning comes amid Tel Aviv's fear that "Ankara will use the F-35 aggressively, especially against Israel."

The official pointed to the "possibility of a military confrontation with Turkey," a possibility he described as "remote but increasing," stressing that "the priority is to avoid escalation."

He revealed that "Israel has previously taken measures to thwart Turkish plans in Syria, and will take further action if necessary."

The official affirmed that Israel believes that "the US Congress is capable, indeed should, obstruct any deal to sell F-35 aircraft to Turkey."

These statements come amid reports of the US administration considering an alternative deal with Turkey involving the sale of two squadrons of F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the latest model of the famous fighter jet, equipped with AESA radar and advanced electronic systems.