Erdogan and F-35s: New Threats Against Israel Before Netanyahu-US Meeting

Ahead of Benjamin Netanyahu's trip to the US, Tayyip Erdogan has launched new threats against Israel, focusing on the sale of F-35s and Turkey's presence in Gaza.

Erdogan, addressing an audience characterized by nationalism and adherence to the Ottoman past, is trying to appear as a powerful leader capable of confronting Israel. However, the balances in the Middle East and the stance of the US limit his capabilities.

Israel is concerned about Turkey's potential acquisition of F-35s, as it would give it the ability to strike critical points in Israel's defense. At the same time, Turkey's presence in Gaza, which is not desired by either Israel or Arab countries, would strengthen its influence in the region.

A possible scenario for Gaza is a strictly non-military presence of Turkey under US supervision, with an emphasis on humanitarian aid and reconstruction. Regarding the F-35s, Washington demands the removal of the S-400s from Turkey, due to the risk of information leakage to Russia.

Alternatively, there could be a relaxation of the framework for Turkey to acquire Eurofighter Typhoons, until it can produce its own KAAN fighter.