The US State Department has given information about these deals late on Friday night. According to the State Department, these arms deals were already informed to the US Congress on Friday, after which they were made public. These deals have come at a time when the situation in the Middle East remains extremely sensitive and the eyes of the world are on America’s strategy regarding Iran.
Israel will get Apache helicopters and military vehicles
Apart from this, 3,250 light tactical vehicles will also be given to Israel, which will cost 1.98 billion dollars. These vehicles will be used in the Israel Defense Force (IDF) to transport soldiers and supplies from one place to another, thereby strengthening military communications and supply lines.
According to the State Department, Israel will spend an additional $740 million on power packs for its armored military vehicles, which it has been using since 2008. Apart from this, some light utility helicopters will also be purchased at a cost of about $150 million, which will strengthen Israel’s existing helicopter fleet.
The US State Department has made it clear that the sale of these weapons will not affect the military balance in the region. The department says that these deals will help Israel deal with current and future threats and further improve its ability to protect its borders, critical infrastructure and civilian population.
Saudi Arabia will get Patriot missiles
At the same time, the sale of arms and military equipment worth about $9 billion to Saudi Arabia has also been approved. Under this deal, 730 Patriot missiles and their related equipment will be given to Saudi Arabia. The US State Department said that this deal will strengthen America’s foreign policy and national security interests.
According to the State Department, the Patriot missile system will significantly increase Saudi Arabia’s air and missile defense capability. This will ensure the security of not only Saudi Arabia but also the ground forces of America and its regional allies. Also, this step will further strengthen the integrated air and missile defense system in the Gulf region.
The US has described Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally and said that the country plays an important role for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region.
Arms deals amid speculation of attack on Iran
These arms deals have been approved at a time when speculations about a US military attack on Iran are intense. On the other hand, President Donald Trump is pushing forward his plan for a ceasefire in Gaza. The objective of this plan is to end the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas and to start the process of reconstruction and redevelopment of the Gaza Strip devastated by war. Thousands of people have lost their lives in this conflict that has lasted for the last two years and there has been massive destruction in Gaza.
The US State Department said that America is committed to Israel’s security and strengthening its self-defense capability is necessary for America’s national interests. The department statement said that America will continue to help Israel develop a strong and alert self-defense structure.
These big arms deals have once again made it clear that America’s strategic presence in the Middle East and defense relations with its allies are going to deepen in the coming times.