Trump and Netanyahu (File photo)
The Trump administration approved arms sales worth $6.67 billion to Israel and $9 billion to Saudi Arabia, as announced by the State Department on Friday. These deals come amid rising regional tensions and Trump’s ongoing Gaza ceasefire efforts. The timing coincides with potential US military actions against Iran and continuing peace initiatives in the Palestinian territory.Israel’s package is divided into four parts. The largest portion includes 30 Apache attack helicopters with advanced weapons systems, valued at $3.8 billion. The second biggest component comprises 3,250 light tactical vehicles worth $1.98 billion, meant for military transport and logistics.Additional Israeli purchases include $740 million for armored personnel carrier power packs and $150 million for light utility helicopters. The State Department maintains these sales will help Israel defend its borders and infrastructure without disrupting regional military balance.Democratic Representative Gregory Meeks criticised the administration’s approach. “The Trump Administration has blatantly ignored long-standing Congressional prerogatives while also refusing to engage Congress on critical questions about the next steps in Gaza and broader US-Israel policy,” he said. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is set to receive 730 Patriot missiles and related equipment. The State Department says this will boost regional security and help a key non-Nato ally maintain stability in the Gulf Region. The deal was finalised after Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman met with top US officials including secretary of state Marco Rubio and defense secretary Pete Hegseth.The deals emerge as the Gaza ceasefire plan progresses, though challenges remain. It includes establishing an international security force and the complex task of disarming Hamas. The State Department emphasised America’s commitment to Israel’s security, saying “it is vital to US national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability.”
