U.S. Approves Arms Sales to Israel and Saudi Arabia
The U.S. State Department announced on Friday that it has greenlit two significant arms sales: one to Israel valued at $6.67 billion and another to Saudi Arabia totaling $9 billion.
These sales come during the Trump administration’s efforts to establish a peacekeeping strategy for the Gaza Strip, alongside the looming possibility of U.S. military action against Iran.
The primary focus of the sale to Israel consists of thirty Apache helicopters equipped with rocket launchers. Additionally, Israel will acquire 3,250 light tactical vehicles, power units for armored personnel carriers, along with various small utility helicopters.
The State Department emphasized that this transaction will strengthen Israel’s capability to defend its borders and vital infrastructure, ultimately increasing its ability to respond to both present and future threats.
Border Crossings Reopening
In a related development, Israel plans to reopen the border crossings with Gaza’s Rafah and Egypt for the first time since May 2024.
The U.S. explained, “Our commitment to Israel’s security is fundamental, as bolstering Israel’s self-defense capabilities aligns with our national interests.”
For Saudi Arabia, the deal includes 730 Patriot missiles and accompanying equipment. According to the State Department, this will aid U.S. foreign policy and enhance the security of a crucial non-NATO ally that contributes to regional political stability and economic development.
The enhancement offered by these arms is aimed at safeguarding the ground forces of Saudi Arabia, the U.S., and local allies, while significantly boosting Saudi Arabia’s role in a collaborative regional air and missile defense system.
During a recent Cabinet meeting, President Trump and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff indicated their expectation that Hamas might disarm as part of the U.S.-backed ceasefire plan for Gaza, which is now in its second phase. However, analysts in the region have expressed skepticism about Hamas’s willingness to disarm, suggesting it may disrupt the plans entirely.
Professor Kobi Michael from the National Security Institute remarked that Hamas will employ various strategies to retain its authority within the Gaza Strip, stating, “The Israel Defense Forces are uniquely positioned to disarm Hamas.”
