US President Donald Trump has publicly dismissed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's concerns over the possible sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets to Turkey, saying that decisions on American arms exports will be made by the United States alone.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said no foreign leader should dictate US defense sales and described Turkey as an important American ally.

Trump Defends US Decision-Making

Responding to questions about Israel's opposition to the proposed deal, Trump said the United States would make its own decisions regarding military exports.

He emphasized that:

• No outside country should decide what the US can or cannot sell.

• Turkey has been an important ally of the United States.

• The possible sale of F-35 fighter jets remains under consideration.

His remarks come amid renewed debate over Washington's defense ties with Ankara.

Netanyahu Raises Security Concerns

Trump's comments coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington for high-level discussions, where regional security and the situation involving Iran were expected to be among the key topics.

Netanyahu has repeatedly voiced opposition to supplying F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, arguing that such a move could alter the military balance in the Middle East.

According to reports, he has urged the US administration not to approve the sale, expressing concern that Turkey's acquisition of advanced stealth aircraft could pose long-term security risks for Israel.

Why Israel Opposes the Deal

Netanyahu has argued that Israel's security could be affected if Turkey gains access to the fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

He has also expressed concerns over the policies of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and warned that providing Ankara with advanced military technology could shift the regional balance of power.

Israel has traditionally sought to maintain its qualitative military edge in the region, making advanced US weapons sales to neighboring countries a sensitive issue.

Trump Signals Openness to the Sale

Recent US media reports suggest that the Trump administration is reviewing whether to move forward with the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey.

Trump has also indicated that his administration is considering lifting sanctions imposed on Turkey following its purchase of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system, an issue that previously strained relations between Washington and Ankara.

Describing the F-35 as one of the world's most advanced fighter aircraft, Trump said the proposed sale is "certainly something" his administration would consider.

Turkey's Expectations

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has indicated that Ankara believes it is making progress toward securing a deal for F-35 fighter jets. Reports also suggest that Turkey is seeking access to American aircraft engines for its domestically developed KAAN fighter jet program.

Any agreement would still need to navigate US legal and political processes, including congressional oversight.

The Bottom Line

The differing positions of President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu highlight the complex balance between US strategic partnerships and regional security concerns. While Trump has signaled a willingness to consider restoring defense cooperation with Turkey, Israel continues to argue that supplying advanced stealth fighters to Ankara could have significant implications for the Middle East's military balance. The final decision will depend on both the US administration and the country's approval process for major arms exports.