$24 billion deal: US arms Saudi Arabia with its most advanced jet as Middle East tensions soar
The United States has announced plans to sell up to 48 F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a deal valued at approximately $24.3 billion. This marks Saudi Arabia as the first Arab nation to acquire the advanced fighter jet. The US Department of State stated that the sale aligns with US foreign policy and security objectives by bolstering a crucial partner in the Gulf region.
It aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities and promote cooperation with US forces. The sale, however, does not alter the regional military balance, in line with US policy that Israel maintains a military edge over its neighbors. Israel, the sole country in the Middle East with the F-35, has raised concerns about the sale, despite the two nations facing escalating tensions.
The deal comes amid ongoing conflict in Yemen, where Houthi rebels backed by Iran have seized control of the Red Sea coast and attacked Saudi territory.
Written by urgent.news from The Indian Express's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Trump administration okays sale of F-35s to Saudi Arabia as part of $24.3B military package timesofisrael.com
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- Trump administration approves sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia aljazeera.com
