The Biden administration has recently greenlighted the sale of weapons worth billions of dollars to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reinforcing its strategic partnerships in the region.
This approval comes at a time of heightened tensions in West Asia, as the US aims to counteract the influence of Iran and its affiliates.
According to a report by Bloomberg, the US State Department has notified Congress of the approval for several significant military sales.
The deal with Saudi Arabia includes Hellfire and Sidewinder missiles, artillery, tank, and machine gun ammunition, with a total value exceeding $1 billion.
The UAE is set to receive GMLRS guided-rocket systems, long-range ATACMS missiles, and associated training and support, with the potential sale valued at up to $1.2 billion.
Congress has been informed of these proposed sales, and unless there is a concerted effort to block them, the contractors and recipient countries can commence negotiations for the contracts.
However, it is important to note that these negotiations might not reach the maximum values indicated in the approval.
This decision marks a notable shift in US policy. In August, the administration lifted previous restrictions on offensive weapon sales to Saudi Arabia, a move intended to pressure Riyadh into reducing its military engagement in Yemen against Houthi rebels.
Since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October last year, the Houthis have intensified their activities, even threatening commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
The approval of these arms deals signals continued support for the Gulf states as they navigate complex geopolitical landscapes.
The relationship between the US and these nations is underscored by their shared concerns over Iran’s actions in the region.
Notably, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has recently taken a firm stance regarding relations with Israel. He declared that Saudi Arabia would not recognize Israel without the establishment of a Palestinian state.
“The kingdom will not stop its tireless work towards the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and we affirm that the kingdom will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel without that,” Crown Prince Salman stated on September 18.
In light of the escalating violence in Gaza, Saudi Arabia has reportedly paused US-backed initiatives aimed at normalizing ties with Israel.
This development reflects a broader regional sentiment among Arab nations, as many continue to support the Palestinian cause amid the ongoing conflict.
The approval of these arms sales not only reinforces US commitments to its Gulf partners but also highlights the complex interplay of military support, regional stability, and the unresolved Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As the situation in West Asia evolves, the implications of these deals will likely resonate through diplomatic channels and military strategies in the region.
As Congress deliberates on this matter, the outcomes could have far-reaching consequences for US foreign policy, Middle Eastern alliances, and the ongoing struggles for peace and stability in an increasingly volatile landscape.