The United States has approved massive arms sales to Israel and Saudi Arabia worth over $15 billion, officials announced as tensions rise in the Middle East. The sales come alongside the Trump administration’s ongoing peacekeeping plan in Gaza and amid potential U.S. military action against Iran.
The largest portion of the deal with Israel includes 30 Apache attack helicopters equipped with rocket launchers, along with 3,250 light tactical vehicles, power packs for armored personnel carriers, and several light utility helicopters. The State Department said the sale will “enhance Israel’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its ability to defend Israel’s borders, vital infrastructure and population centers.”
“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability,” the department added.
Saudi Arabia is set to receive 730 Patriot missiles and associated equipment. The State Department noted that the sale will “support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf Region.” The enhanced capabilities are expected to protect the land forces of Saudi Arabia, U.S. forces, and local allies, while strengthening Saudi Arabia’s role in the regional integrated air and missile defense system.
President Donald Trump and his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, said during a Cabinet meeting on Thursday that they expect Hamas to disarm under a U.S.-backed Gaza ceasefire plan as it moves into its second phase. However, experts have warned that Hamas may resist disarmament and could potentially block the U.S. plan entirely.
“Hamas will do all the possible and creative maneuvers and manipulations to keep its power and influence in the Gaza Strip,” said Professor Kobi Michael, senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies and the Misgav Institute. “The Israel Defense Forces are the only entity that can disarm Hamas.”
The arms sale to Israel comes as the nation prepares to strengthen its military capabilities in response to ongoing threats from militant groups in Gaza. The Apache helicopters, along with the light tactical vehicles and utility aircraft, will provide Israel with increased mobility, firepower, and rapid response capacity.
In Saudi Arabia, the Patriot missile systems are designed to enhance the kingdom’s missile defense network. U.S. officials emphasized that the sale is intended to improve regional stability and secure American interests, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with Iran. The systems are expected to bolster Saudi Arabia’s ability to respond to aerial threats while working in coordination with U.S. forces.
Analysts say the timing of the arms sales reflects U.S. efforts to maintain strategic alliances in the region and deter potential aggression. The Trump administration has highlighted that supporting key partners like Israel and Saudi Arabia is critical to preserving peace and security across the Middle East.
The $15 billion package underscores the U.S.’s continued commitment to ensuring that allies in the region are well-equipped to manage both conventional and asymmetrical threats. While the Gaza ceasefire talks continue, U.S. officials stress that military preparedness remains a top priority.
