Saudi Arabia experiences four hours of dust storms on Thursday

The US State Department has approved the proposed sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, valued at approximately $24.3 billion, according to a statement released on Thursday. However, the deal still requires approval from Congress. The administration argues that the sale aligns with US foreign policy objectives by enhancing the security of Saudi Arabia, a key non-NATO ally that plays a crucial role in maintaining political stability and economic growth in the Gulf region.

President Donald Trump reaffirmed the administration's stance that this move would not disrupt the existing military balance in the Middle East, emphasizing a commitment to Israel's military advantage in the region.

Saudi Arabia's defense ministry highlighted the sale as a reflection of the enduring strength and significance of the kingdom's relationship with the United States. Both nations have maintained a robust defense partnership that has contributed to regional stability, bolstered collective defense capabilities, and advanced shared security interests over several decades.

For Saudi Arabia, the acquisition of F-35 jets, the most advanced US fighter aircraft, has been a long-standing aspiration. However, Israel's opposition to the sale, despite efforts to normalize relations between the two countries, remains a hurdle. Israel, the sole country in the region with access to F-35 jets, has not yet commented on the State Department's announcement.

This announcement arrives ten months after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington, during which President Trump had initially indicated approval for the sale, stressing the importance of Saudi Arabia's status as a major non-NATO ally. In recent weeks, Saudi Arabia has been embroiled in a conflict with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, with the group launching numerous attacks against the kingdom.

The Houthis have also secured control of Yemen's western coast, granting them unprecedented access to the Red Sea and Bab Al Mandeb strait. Reports suggest that the Houthis have been in communication with US officials to assure Washington that their recent advancements would not result in attacks on American vessels.