The United States has approved several major arms deals for Israel and Saudi Arabia, collectively valued at billions of dollars, amidst ongoing regional tensions.
On Friday, the U.S. State Department announced its approval of two sales to Israel. The first includes 30 Apache attack helicopters and related equipment for $3.8 billion. The second is for light tactical vehicles valued at $1.8 billion. In a statement, the State Department affirmed its commitment to Israel’s security, noting, “It is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.”
In a separate approval on the same day, the State Department cleared a $9 billion sale of 730 Patriot air defense missiles to Saudi Arabia. The department stated the deal “supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the security of an important partner.”
Additionally, on Monday, the U.S. approved a separate $510 million sale of bomb guidance equipment to Israel. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated this was to replenish stockpiles following Israel’s recent military operations against Iran, which included an extensive air campaign targeting Iranian nuclear sites.
These approvals are pending final certification by the U.S. Congress.
