Israel opposes F-35 sale to UAE despite diplomatic thaw

Advanced American hardware risks upset to regional power balance, Netanyahu fears

20200818N F-35 Lightning

U.S.-developed F-35 fighters already form part of Israel's arsenal. (Photo courtesy of the U.S. Air Force)

MOMOKO KIDERA, Nikkei staff writer

ISTANBUL -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Tuesday his opposition to any sale of F-35 stealth fighters from the U.S. to the United Arab Emirates, wary of disrupting the regional balance of military power.

The recent American-brokered agreement by Israel and the UAE to normalize relations "did not include Israel's consent to any arms deal whatsoever between the United States and the UAE," the Israeli prime minister's office said.

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