President Trump stated that placing F-35 stealth fighters in Turkey's hands would destroy the Middle East's balance of power, and indicated he would not proceed with such a sale, according to a report.
President Trump said Tuesday evening that he would not sell F-35 stealth fighters to Turkey, warning that the transfer would 'destroy the balance in the Middle East.' The statement, reported by The Zioneer, marks a sharp reversal from a series of signals earlier in the day that suggested the sale was moving forward.
The day's developments began at 16:17 Jerusalem, when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan claimed the United States had promised to sell Turkey five aircraft. Within minutes, Erdogan specified the jets as F-35s, and Trump responded that he had 'no concerns' about the sale. By 16:17, Trump also confirmed a U.S. commitment to provide spare parts, and Israeli journalist Noam Amir reported that Trump was considering the sale. The Zioneer tracked each shift, noting that The New York Times had reported earlier Tuesday at 05:51 Jerusalem that Trump was ready to signal Erdogan.
The reversal follows days of Israeli opposition. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Fox News on Monday that Erdogan 'threatens Israel, Greece, Cyprus, destabilizes the region; should not get F-35.' The Zioneer reported extensively on the deliberations, including an analysis urging skepticism of Trump's pledges.
It remains unclear whether Trump's statement is a definitive policy change or a negotiating tactic. No official confirmation from the White House or Pentagon has been released. Israeli officials are likely to welcome the remarks, but the U.S. position may remain fluid.
5 developments
- StrongNetanyahu tells CNN: F-35 sale to Turkey would destroy Middle East balance
- StrongAnalysis: Trump's renewed push for F-35 sale to Turkey threatens Israel's air supremacy in the Mediterranean
- StrongTrump says he will likely approve F-35 and engine sale to Turkey
- DevelopingMark Levin blasts Trump over reported F-35 sale to Turkey
Source and signal
- Internal intake