President Donald Trump's administration has given the green light for the sale of nearly 50 F-35 Lightning II jets to Saudi Arabia, a move that represents a break from longstanding US policy. The F-35 is the world's most advanced warplane, equipped with stealth technology that allows it to evade enemy detection.
Washington had previously resisted selling the aircraft to Riyadh, in part because it supplies the jets to Israel, which is guaranteed under US law to receive top-of-the-range American weapons compared to those available to regional neighbours. The administration's decision has raised concerns from some members of Congress, who now have 30 days to scrutinise or attempt to block the sale.
Saudi Arabia has sought for years to acquire the F-35, and the approval follows a series of diplomatic engagements between the Trump administration and the Saudi leadership. The deal is valued at $24bn and underscores Riyadh's position as the largest purchaser of US weaponry.
While the administration has framed the sale as strengthening a key ally and creating American jobs, critics argue that it could undermine Israel's qualitative military edge and exacerbate regional tensions. Congress will now weigh competing national security and human rights concerns over the coming weeks.