A whole new world
Panic in Israel: US in Talks to Sell F-35 Fighter Jets to Qatar
After years of rejection, Israeli sources have expressed concern that Qatar is nearing a deal to purchase F-35 fighter jets from the United States. This deal, along with sales to Turkey and Saudi Arabi, is being viewed as a threat to Israeli aerial superiority.
Israel is closely monitoring advanced talks between Qatar and the United States over the potential sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets, amid growing concern in Jerusalem that a wave of American arms deals across the Middle East could erode Israel’s long-standing qualitative military edge.
Israeli defense officials say discussions between Doha and Washington have intensified in recent months, marking a shift from previous years, when similar Qatari requests were rejected by US administrations. While Qatar first sought to purchase F-35s roughly five years ago, the renewed talks are seen in Israel as significantly more serious.
The development comes as the Trump administration advances parallel discussions on possible F-35 sales to Saudi Arabia and Turkey, and considers reviving a previously frozen deal with the United Arab Emirates. Israeli security officials warn that the cumulative effect of these transactions could significantly narrow the Israel Air Force’s technological superiority, which has long been central to its operational freedom across the region.
In response, Israel’s defense establishment has begun formulating a compensation and requirements package to present to Washington. According to defense sources, the proposal includes the acquisition of two additional combat squadrons: one of F-35 aircraft and another of advanced F-15IA fighter jets tailored to Israeli operational needs. Israel is also seeking substantial quantities of advanced munitions as part of the package.
Officials stress that time is a critical factor. Delays in decision-making could push Israel down production queues at US manufacturers, potentially affecting delivery timelines and readiness planning for the coming decade.
While the discussions remain internal at this stage, defense officials say the political echelon will soon be required to engage directly with the US administration to secure guarantees and compensatory measures. The concern in Jerusalem is not tied to any single country, but to the broader regional picture emerging as multiple Middle Eastern states pursue access to fifth-generation stealth capabilities.
Israeli officials emphasize that preserving the qualitative military edge is not symbolic but operational, particularly at a time of heightened regional instability and evolving aerial threats.