Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has issued a blunt warning about Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, describing him as “a very dangerous man” and stating that Turkey under its current leadership poses a “very significant threat” to Israel.
In comments reported on July 8–9, 2026, Smotrich revealed that Israel is working “very hard both publicly and behind the scenes” with the Trump administration to prevent the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Turkey.
Smotrich’s Strong Warning
Speaking to Israeli media outlet Yedioth Ahronoth (Ynet), Smotrich said:
“Erdogan is a very dangerous man. Türkiye is a significant threat to Israel right now. We are conducting very intensive discussions with the President and with the administration, and we are working very hard, both publicly and behind the scenes, to try to prevent the sale of the F-35s to Türkiye. Erdogan must not be allowed access to game-changing weapons.”
The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Israel and Turkey, exacerbated by Israel’s military operations in Gaza and Erdoğan’s vocal criticism of Israeli policies, including strong support for the Palestinian cause.
Background: F-35 Deal and U.S.-Turkey Relations
Turkey was removed from the multinational F-35 program in 2019 during President Trump’s first term after purchasing Russia’s S-400 air defense system. The move was driven by U.S. concerns that the Russian system could compromise the stealth capabilities of the F-35.
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Recently, during a meeting with Erdoğan in Ankara as part of NATO-related events, President Trump signaled openness to reconsidering the sale and lifting related sanctions. Trump described Turkey as a loyal ally in some respects and said the U.S. would “consider” selling the jets.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials have also expressed strong opposition, arguing that providing Turkey with F-35s would undermine Israel’s qualitative military edge (QME) in the region.
Regional Implications
The F-35 is one of the world’s most advanced stealth multirole fighters, offering superior situational awareness, sensor fusion, and strike capabilities. Israel views any transfer to Turkey, a NATO member with a large and modernising military as a potential game-changer that could shift the balance of power in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East.
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Tensions between the two countries have been strained for years, with Erdoğan frequently accusing Israel of aggression and Israel viewing Turkey’s regional influence (including ties to groups like Hamas in the past) with suspicion.
Broader Context and Reactions
Smotrich, a far-right politician and leader of the Religious Zionist Party, is known for his hardline positions on security and settlements. His comments align with broader Israeli concerns about Turkey’s trajectory under Erdoğan.
Turkish officials have dismissed Israeli opposition as disinformation and continue to push for reinstatement in the F-35 program, arguing the original exclusion was unfair.
The developments highlight shifting dynamics under the Trump administration, where personal rapport with Erdoğan appears to be influencing U.S. policy considerations, even as traditional allies like Israel voice strong reservations.
What’s Next?
Any potential F-35 sale to Turkey would likely face significant hurdles in the U.S. Congress due to the S-400 issue and bipartisan concerns. Israel is expected to continue lobbying intensively against the deal.
This story is developing rapidly as geopolitical alignments in the Middle East continue to evolve.
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Key Takeaways:
- Smotrich warns Erdoğan is “very dangerous” and Turkey threatens Israel.
- Israel actively working with Trump admin to block F-35 sale.
- Recent Trump-Erdogan talks raised possibility of renewed U.S. arms cooperation with Turkey.
- Israel prioritizes maintaining its military qualitative edge.
Stay tuned for updates on this high-stakes diplomatic and security issue.
