Israel moves in Washington to block F-35 deals and influence Iran and Gaza files

Israel is lobbying in Washington to influence US decisions on Iran and the Gaza Strip, including efforts to halt the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported on Sunday night that a meeting was held between Israeli and American officials to discuss several key issues, notably Gaza, Iran and bilateral cooperation.

According to the Hebrew-language channel, in light of talks on selling F-35 aircraft to regional countries such as Turkey and Saudi Arabia, Israeli and US officials discussed the need to maintain Israel’s military technological edge.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed his wish to visit US President Donald Trump to influence US negotiations with Iran. He is concerned that these talks may not cover issues Israel sees as vital, including Iran’s ballistic missile programme and Iran-backed militias.

The composition of the delegation due to leave on Tuesday has not yet been finalised, and it is possible that Israeli army officers will be part of it.

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