US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has cancelled planned meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz amid growing sensitivity over Washington’s possible sale of F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye, an Israeli source told Reuters on Wednesday.
The cancellation comes as the Trump administration signals a willingness to restore defence ties with Ankara, including a potential path towards F-35 sales, despite strong opposition from Israeli officials.
Netanyahu has been lobbying against the transfer of the advanced fighter jets to Türkiye, arguing that such a move could shift the military balance in the Middle East.
Related
Netanyahu’s failed attempts
In an interview with CNN on Tuesday, Netanyahu said he had directly raised his concerns with US President Donald Trump.
“It would destroy the power balance in the Middle East because Türkiye has aggressive aspirations,” Netanyahu said.
Israel has long viewed Türkiye’s regional policies with concern, particularly Ankara’s criticism of Israeli genocide in Gaza, invasions in parts of Lebanon and Syria, and deadly attacks.
However, Washington’s recent moves suggest Israel’s campaign to stop the potential sale has not prevented discussions from moving forward.
