The United States has approved major weapons sales to Saudi Arabia and Israel amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The decision was announced on Friday by the US State Department and involves multibillion-dollar defense deals with both allies.
According to the State Department, the US approved a $3.8 billion sale of 30 Apache attack helicopters to Israel. The package also includes a $1.8 billion deal for joint light tactical vehicles. US officials said the move supports Israel’s security needs and aligns with American national interests.
In an official statement, the State Department said the United States remains committed to Israel’s defense. It added that helping Israel maintain strong self-defense capabilities is a key US priority. The approved sale was described as consistent with long-standing security objectives.
The US provides Israel with billions of dollars in military support each year. Most of this assistance comes through aid rather than direct sales. The latest approval comes after Israel and Hamas agreed to a US-backed ceasefire in Gaza in October. The truce largely paused nearly two years of intense fighting.
At the same time, the US approved a $9 billion weapons sale to Saudi Arabia. This deal includes 730 Patriot missiles, which are designed to intercept and destroy incoming threats. Patriot missiles play a critical role in air and missile defense systems, especially in regions facing security risks.
The sale of Patriot missiles to Saudi Arabia comes as tensions remain high near Iran. The US has increased its military presence in regional waters as a deterrent. Iran has faced international pressure following widespread protests, which were met with a violent crackdown by authorities.
Saudi Arabia, despite its rivalry with Iran, has urged caution regarding any military action. Gulf nations fear that further conflict could damage regional stability and harm their image as safe destinations for business and investment. Patriot missiles are seen as a defensive measure rather than an offensive signal.
Regional dynamics remain complex. Israel carried out air strikes last year against Iranian nuclear and military sites. Meanwhile, talks about Saudi Arabia normalizing relations with Israel have slowed. Concerns over ongoing Israeli military operations in Palestinian areas have added uncertainty.
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In othernUS officials said the Gaza ceasefire has entered a second phase, focusing on weakening Hamas. The conflict began after a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,221 people in Israel, mostly civilians. Israel’s response has resulted in at least 71,667 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health authorities.
