President Trump formalised a strategic economic partnership during a ceremonial signing with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. PHOTO: CNN

WASHINGTON: The United States has approved a possible $5 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, including bombs, guidance kits and related military equipment, as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East.

The proposed deal comes amid repeated drone and missile attacks targeting Saudi Arabia following the outbreak of the US-Israeli war against Iran.

US Says Deal Will Strengthen Saudi Defence

The US State Department said the proposed arms package is aimed at strengthening Saudi Arabia’s airborne and homeland defence capabilities.

According to the department, the equipment would help Saudi Arabia respond to existing and potential future regional threats while improving military interoperability with US forces and other Gulf partners.

Washington said the proposed sale would also support US foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of Saudi Arabia, which is considered a major non-NATO ally of the United States.

What Is Included in the Arms Package?

The proposed $5 billion package includes thousands of bombs and guidance kits along with a range of supporting equipment.

The deal also covers fuzes, target detectors, containers, spare parts, technical assistance and other military support equipment.

US aerospace and defence company Boeing has been identified as the principal contractor for the proposed sale.

Saudi Arabia Faces Drone and Missile Threats

Saudi Arabia has faced drone and missile attacks since the United States and Israel launched military action against Iran earlier this year.

Iranian forces and Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been linked to attacks targeting Saudi interests, including energy and maritime infrastructure.

The latest US arms package is therefore expected to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s ability to defend its territory and critical infrastructure against aerial threats.

US Congress Approval Still Required

The US State Department has formally notified Congress about the proposed arms sale.

However, the notification does not mean that the deal has been finalised. The proposed transfer still requires approval from US lawmakers before it can proceed.

The announcement therefore represents a potential arms agreement rather than a completed defence contract.

Arms Deal Comes Amid Rising Regional Tensions

The proposed sale comes at a time of heightened tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, with several Gulf countries facing increased security concerns.

Washington’s decision to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s military capabilities reflects growing concerns over missile and drone threats in the region and the potential impact of the wider conflict on Gulf security.

The proposed deal could further deepen defence cooperation between Washington and Riyadh as both countries seek to respond to growing regional security challenges.