Israel Asserts Military Superiority Amid US-Saudi F-35 Agreement

Israel expressed confidence in preserving its military superiority in the Middle East, even following the announcement of the US's intention to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This assurance was provided by an Israeli government representative on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

Currently, Israel is the sole operator of the F-35 in the region, which is acknowledged as one of the most advanced combat aircraft globally. The United States has committed to ensuring that Israel retains a "qualitative military edge" in the area, indicating that Israel will consistently possess superior military technology compared to its neighbors.

Shosh Bedrosian, a government spokesperson, remarked to journalists, “The understanding between the United States and Israel is that Israel will maintain its qualitative edge in defense. This has been the case historically, remains the case today, and will continue into the future.” This was Israel's initial official response concerning the F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia.

Earlier this week, the US confirmed plans to provide Saudi Arabia with F-35 warplanes. Notably, Saudi Arabia does not recognize Israel officially. During a recent visit to Washington, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman indicated the kingdom's interest in formalizing ties with Israel while ensuring a clear process for a two-state resolution regarding the Palestinians.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vehemently opposed the idea of Palestinian statehood. US officials have assured that the F-35 jets provided to Saudi Arabia will lack the advanced features found in Israel’s aircraft, including specialized weapons systems and electronic warfare capabilities, thus allowing Israel to sustain its military dominance.

This situation underscores the ongoing strategic equilibrium in the Middle East, where Israel strives to remain technologically and militarily superior, even as the US bolsters its military collaborations in the region.