Washington, DC — The Trump administration has approved major new arms sales to Israel and Saudi Arabia totaling more than $15 billion, moves that come as tensions remain high in the Middle East and fragile ceasefire efforts continue in Gaza.
The State Department announced late Friday that it had cleared $6.67 billion in weapons sales to Israel and $9 billion in arms and related equipment to Saudi Arabia after formally notifying Congress earlier in the day. The approvals arrive amid concerns over potential U.S. military action involving Iran and as President Donald Trump advances a ceasefire and reconstruction framework for Gaza following two years of conflict.
According to the State Department, the Saudi package includes 730 Patriot missiles and associated systems intended to strengthen air and missile defense capabilities in the Gulf. Officials said the sale would enhance protection for Saudi, U.S., and allied forces while supporting regional security objectives. The announcement followed meetings between Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman and senior U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
The Israel sales are divided into four separate packages. The largest component, valued at $3.8 billion, includes 30 Apache attack helicopters with advanced targeting and weapons systems. Additional packages cover $1.98 billion in light tactical vehicles, $740 million in power packs for armored personnel carriers, and about $150 million for utility helicopters.
Rep. Gregory Meeks, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, criticized the timing of the announcements, accusing the administration of sidelining congressional oversight amid unresolved questions about U.S. policy in Gaza. The State Department said the sales would not alter the regional military balance and reaffirmed U.S. commitments to Israel’s security.
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