Why Trump's F-35 deal with Saudi is worrying Israel

The United States Department of Defense has greenlit a potential $24.3 billion sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, signaling new progress on a long-standing defense agreement. The proposed deal comprises 48 aircraft and 49 engines, although the transaction is not yet finalized and must still undergo congressional approval before proceeding.

Should the sale be approved, Saudi Arabia would be the second Middle Eastern nation to possess the F-35, following Israel, a development that has already generated considerable unease in Tel Aviv and raised fresh concerns in Washington regarding the potential impact on regional military dynamics.

Israel's unease stems from its longstanding commitment to maintaining its military edge through exclusive access to the F-35. This advantage has been crucial to Israel's security, and the possibility of Saudi Arabia joining the ranks of F-35 users has reignited fears that this advantage could diminish. While the Trump administration contends that the sale would not disrupt regional military balance, as the Saudi F-35s could differ from Israel's configuration through country-specific modifications and capabilities not granted to other buyers, Israeli apprehensions persist.

Adding to American concerns, the deal has reignited scrutiny over Saudi Arabia's expanding relationship with China. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has bolstered its economic, technological, and military ties with Beijing, sparking questions among U.S. officials and intelligence agencies about potential risks to sensitive F-35 technology.

This is not the first instance where Saudi Arabia's connections with China have impacted a Middle East F-35 deal; the United Arab Emirates had previously been offered F-35 jets but ultimately abandoned the plan due to U.S. concerns over the UAE's ties with China and the protection of American technology. As a result, observers are now closely monitoring whether Saudi Arabia's case will encounter similar hurdles or proceed despite them.

Even with the administration's endorsement, the deal remains contingent upon congressional review. Lawmakers are expected to consider factors beyond the monetary aspect, including Israel's security concerns, Saudi Arabia's relationship with China, and the broader implications of expanding U.S. military cooperation with Riyadh. The F-35 itself represents one of the most advanced fighter aircraft in the U.S. arsenal, a fifth-generation jet boasting stealth, advanced sensors, and networked warfare capabilities.

If transferred to Saudi Arabia, it would significantly upgrade the kingdom's air force and expand its air warfare capabilities, prompting intense observation from Israel and lawmakers regarding the evolving nature of the U.S.-Saudi defense partnership.