Trump confirms plan to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudis, raising Israeli concerns

“They want to buy, and I plan to sell them.”

By World Israel News Staff

President Donald Trump announced Monday that he intends to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia.

“They want to buy, and I plan to sell them. Saudi Arabia is an incredible ally,” Trump said ahead of the crown prince’s visit to the White House on Tuesday.

The planned sale has sparked concern in Israel, which currently holds the region’s exclusive fleet of F-35s.

Israeli officials have urged the U.S. to condition any transfer of the jets on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, citing the importance of maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge.

Aharon Lapidot, a former Israeli Air Force commander and defense analyst, noted that the move could shift the regional balance of power.

“If Saudi Arabia indeed joins the select club that holds the American stealth fighter, the implication is not just another advanced jet in the region; it is a change in the basis of the balance of power,” Lapidot told Israel Hayom.

He added that Israel’s concern is not rooted in viewing Riyadh as an enemy, but in the need to safeguard its long-term strategic advantage in a volatile region.

According to reports, Saudi Arabia has requested permission to purchase up to 48 F-35 Lightning II jets, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is expected to discuss the deal with President Trump during his Washington visit.

Currently, Israel remains the sole operator of the U.S.-made F-35s in the Middle East, giving it a decisive technological edge over neighboring states.