UAE Foreign Minister: Israel Must Stop Efforts to Block F-35 Acquisition

Israeli Prime Minister Expresses Opposition
F-35 Acquisition Issue a Stumbling Block in Bilateral Relations

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has warned Israel not to interfere with its purchase of the United States' advanced stealth fighter jet F-35. Although the UAE has normalized relations by signing a peace agreement with Israel, it suggested that significant differences remain regarding arms procurement, which could become a source of conflict.

On the 20th (local time), Anwar Gargash, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, stated in an online interview with the American think tank 'Atlantic Council' that "Israel should stop efforts to prevent the US from selling F-35s to the UAE," and claimed, "The UAE is making a legitimate demand."

Previously, the UAE attracted attention as the first Gulf country to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel. He also stated that there have been no new demands made to the US regarding the normalization of diplomatic relations with Israel.

Although the UAE and Israel have moved toward normalization, the issue of the UAE's acquisition of the F-35 remains a new stumbling block between the two countries. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed opposition to the US selling F-35s to the UAE on the 18th. Netanyahu argued that the peace agreement between Israel and the UAE did not include any commitments regarding arms deals between the US and the UAE. He mentioned, "The US has clearly assured Israel that it will always protect Israel's vital interests."

Until now, the US has been a major supplier of weapons to Arab countries but has not sold advanced weapons like the F-35. If the export of the F-35 to the UAE proceeds as requested, it would bring new changes to the regional security situation.

Meanwhile, Minister Gargash introduced that other Arab countries are also pursuing improved relations with Israel, albeit at different stages. He emphasized that "(the Middle East) region needs a strategic breakthrough" and that the relationship between the UAE and Israel is moving toward a "warm peace." Israel has previously anticipated the possibility of improving relations with Bahrain, Oman, Morocco, Sudan, and others.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.