The Trump administration has approved significant new arms sales to Israel and Saudi Arabia, totalling $6.67 billion and $9 billion respectively, prompting criticism in Congress over the timing and handling of the announcements, media reports said on Saturday.
The State Department made the sales public late on Friday, following notification to Congress earlier in the day, amid rising regional tensions over potential US military action against Iran, ABC News reported.
The Saudi Arabia package includes 730 Patriot missiles and related support equipment.
According to the State Department, the sale “supports US foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the defence capabilities of a Major Non-NATO Ally, contributing to political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region.”
The department added that the deal “will strengthen Saudi ground forces, protect US personnel and regional partners, and enhance Saudi contributions to the integrated regional air and missile defence system.”
The announcement followed a visit by Saudi Arabia’s Defence Minister, Khalid bin Salman, who met with senior Trump administration officials, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth.
Arms sales to Israel are structured in four separate packages, including 30 Apache attack helicopters with associated weaponry and equipment, as well as 3,250 light tactical vehicles.
Gregory Meeks, senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, criticised the administration, saying it had rushed the announcement in a manner that “disregards Congressional oversight and established practice.”
He added that “the Trump administration has ignored long-standing Congressional prerogatives and has failed to consult lawmakers on critical issues regarding Gaza and broader US-Israel policy.”
The approval of these arms deals comes as political and military tensions between the United States and Iran continue to rise. Washington has deployed additional forces to the region, and both sides have issued warnings concerning possible military action.
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