US Defence Deal with Israel and Saudi Arabia: The United States has said yes to two very large weapons deals. One deal is with Israel and the other is with Saudi Arabia. The US State Department approved both deals late on Friday. Israel will get weapons worth $6.67 billion. Saudi Arabia will get weapons worth $9 billion.
For Israel, the deal includes 30 Apache helicopters. These helicopters come with rocket launchers. Israel will also receive 3,250 light military vehicles. The package also has power packs for armored personnel carriers and small utility helicopters. The State Department said this deal will help protect Israel’s borders. It will also help keep its cities and people safe from threats now and in the future.
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A Fox News report shared that the US promises “unwavering support for Israel’s security,” and said Israel plays a “vital role in American national interests through bolstering robust self-defence capabilities.”
What is Saudi Arabia Getting?
Saudi Arabia’s deal is also very large. The country will receive 730 Patriot missiles and other military equipment. The State Department said this deal supports US foreign policy goals. It also helps make Saudi Arabia stronger as an important non-NATO ally. Officials believe this will help keep the Gulf region stable and support economic growth there.
This deal comes at a tense time in the Middle East. Tension between the US and Iran has been rising. There has also been talk of US military action. Even with this, Saudi Arabia earlier tried to stay calm in public. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the kingdom “will not permit its airspace or territory to be used for any military actions against Iran,” during reports of US naval buildup and possible strikes by President Donald Trump.
Changing Tone Behind Closed Doors
The timing of the deal is important. It came after Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He shared news of the meeting on X. He said both countries talked about their strategic relationship.
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At the same time, Saudi Arabia’s message seems to be changing in private. In a closed Washington briefing, Prince Khalid bin Salman warned that if U.S. President Donald Trump does not act on Iran threats it could embolden the regime. This information came from four Axios sources on Friday. This private warning is different from Saudi Arabia’s public message of lowering tensions. It is also a change from earlier concerns shared by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
