US approves $16b in arms sales to Israel and Saudi Arabia amid Middle East tensions

WEB DESK: The United States has approved major arms sales totaling nearly USD16 billion to key Middle East allies Israel and Saudi Arabia, at a time when regional tensions especially with Iran remain elevated.

On Friday, the State Department approved a potential USD6.67 billion package for Israel. which includes 30 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters worth approximately USD3.8 billion, equipped with rocket launchers and advanced targeting systems, along with 3,250 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs)valued at about USD1.98 billion. The package also includes additional equipment such as light utility helicopters and armored vehicle power packs.

According to AFP, the State Department stated that these sales strengthen Israel’s security and support its ability to maintain a strong self-defense capability, which is consistent with U.S. national interests. Israel already receives about USD3.8 billion in annual military aid under a long-term memorandum of understanding, but these transactions are commercial sales processed through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.

The approvals come during a fragile U.S.-backed ceasefire in Gaza that has largely halted fighting between Israel and Hamas. The Trump administration has described the ceasefire as entering its second phase, with a focus on disarming Hamas.

USD9B Patriot Missile Sale to Saudi Arabia Bolsters Gulf Defenses

The U.S. cleared a USD nine-billion sale to Saudi Arabia for 730 Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement missiles and associated equipment. These advanced air-defense systems are designed to counter incoming threats and bolster Saudi Arabia’s security as a major non-NATO ally.

Saudi Arabia was recently designated a “major non-NATO ally,” granting it certain military and economic privileges without formal mutual defense obligations. Earlier in the administration, potential sales of less advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia were announced, while U.S. law ensures Israel retains its qualitative military edge in the region.

The combined packages, totaling nearly USD16 billion, were formally notified to Congress on Friday and are now subject to a congressional review period and final contract negotiations.

The sales occur against a backdrop of heightened regional risks, including ongoing U.S. military deployments in waters near Iran, Israel’s previous strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, and continued domestic pressures inside Iran following widespread protests.

These decisions reaffirm Washington’s long-standing commitment to deepening defense cooperation with Israel and Saudi Arabia amid the complex and volatile dynamics of the Middle East.