Israel is against the US sale of F-35 fighters to Turkiye on security grounds.

Axar.az reports that Israeli Ambassador to the US Yahel Leiter said this in an interview with the Jerusalem Post newspaper.

Leiter does not consider Ankara's sale of the latest aircraft to Turkiye at this stage to be a constructive step.

He acknowledged Turkiye's strategic importance as a NATO member with significant military potential and a key geographical location:

"Israel understands Washington's desire to maintain strong relations with Ankara. The US is trying to build pragmatic relations, taking into account Israel's security needs. Israel cannot agree to the presence of Turkish troops in Gaza or Syria. The US respects this position."

Leiter also dismissed concerns about possible arms deals between the US and Saudi Arabia, noting that Israel sees no signs that its military superiority could be threatened in this case.