Israel Confident It Keeps Military Edge Despite US-Saudi F-35 Deal

Israel has said it expects to keep its military advantage in the Middle East, even after the United States announced plans to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This statement came from an Israeli government spokesperson on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

Israel is currently the only country in the Middle East to operate the F-35, one of the most advanced warplanes in the world. The United States guarantees that Israel will have a "qualitative military edge" in the region, meaning Israel will continue to have more advanced military technology than any neighboring country.

A government spokesperson, Shosh Bedrosian, told reporters, “The United States and Israel have a long-standing understanding that Israel maintains the qualitative edge in defense. This has been true in the past, it is true today, and it will continue to be true in the future.” The remarks marked the first official response from Israel regarding the sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia.

Earlier this week, the US announced plans to sell F-35 warplanes to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia does not officially recognize Israel. During a visit to Washington, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the kingdom wants to establish official ties with Israel while ensuring a clear path for a two-state solution for Palestinians.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly opposed Palestinian statehood. US officials have confirmed that the F-35 jets sold to Saudi Arabia will not include the most advanced features found in Israel’s fighters. These features include advanced weapons systems and electronic warfare capabilities, ensuring Israel maintains its military superiority.

This development highlights the continuing strategic balance in the Middle East, where Israel aims to remain ahead in technology and defense, even as the US expands its military partnerships in the region.