Netanyahu stresses Israeli air superiority as Turkey eyes F-35s and regional tensions rise

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said maintaining Israel’s air superiority is essential and a cornerstone of the country’s national‑security doctrine. He warned that “new axes are emerging” and cited the possibility of Turkey receiving U.S. F‑35 fighter jets as a serious concern for Israel’s qualitative edge.

Netanyahu recalled recent successful operations against Iran, stating that without Israel’s intervention Tehran might have acquired nuclear weapons. He warned that the war with Iran is not over and that Israel stands ready to resume hostilities with greater force if required. The prime minister also affirmed that Israeli forces remain stationed in safe zones in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria and will continue to protect the Galilee and Israeli citizens.

Chief of Staff Iyal Zamir reported that hundreds of Israeli Air Force aircraft and tens of thousands of personnel are on high alert, ready for immediate deployment. Netanyahu’s remarks came amid discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump about American military moves in the Gulf and Turkey’s potential F‑35 purchase, which he described as “unacceptable”.