Saudi Arabia’s Pursuit of F-35 Fighter Jets

Saudi Arabia has been eyeing the acquisition of F-35 jets for quite some time. These planes are viewed as significant in the ongoing discussions aimed at normalizing relations with Israel.

However, President Trump mentioned on Tuesday, alongside Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, that the deal for these jets might proceed independently of any advancements in regional relations.

When questioned if the sale was linked to a larger security arrangement, Trump responded with a firm “no.” He expressed confidence that both parties would reach an agreement, emphasizing, “They’re going to come to an agreement.” He also noted that the F-35, which they would be purchasing from Lockheed, is an impressive aircraft.

Another journalist pointed out that Israel views normalization with Saudi Arabia as a critical condition for the deal to happen.

Trump replied, stating, “Israel is aware and would be very happy.” He continued by comparing the F-35s to the Israeli fleet, suggesting that the Saudi versions would be “quite similar.”

This potential sale has raised alarms among Israeli and some U.S. officials, as it could jeopardize what is known as Israel’s qualitative military edge.

During the discussion, Crown Prince Mohammed and Trump touched on broadening the Abraham Accords, which facilitated Israel’s relations with several smaller Arab nations during Trump’s first term. Yet, the crown prince indicated that Riyadh remains unsatisfied with the progress towards a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, even in light of a ceasefire brokered by Trump.

“We want to be part of the Abraham Accords, but we also want to ensure we have a clear path to a two-state solution,” he commented to reporters.

Trump added that they discussed various options, mentioning, “We talked about one state, we talked about two states. We talked about a lot of things.” He reassured that discussions would continue soon.

In his remarks, the President argued that both Israel and Saudi Arabia deserve the best resources the United States can provide.

“I know that Israel is a great ally, and we want them to get downsized planes,” Trump stated, hinting that he didn’t find that idea particularly flattering. “As far as I’m concerned, I think they’re both at the level they should be at the top.”

This fighter jet sale follows Trump’s mention of a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia. While this is a crucial demand from Riyadh, it stops short of the mutual defense pact that’s unlikely to pass through the Senate.