U.S. approves nearly $2 billion in weapons sales to Saudi Arabia

The U.S. State Department approved an estimated $1.96 billion weapons sale to Saudi Arabia to bolster its air defenses, as conflict escalates in West Asia. The proposed sale includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems and warheads, with BAE Systems as the principal contractor. The State Department stated the sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security by improving the security of a Major non-NATO Ally that promotes stability in the Gulf Region. The move comes as Saudi Arabia faces renewed threats from Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis, who recently fired missiles at Abha airport, and amid escalating U.S. military actions against Iran, including a naval blockade. The department noted no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness.