US Greenlights F-35 Fighter Jet Sale to Saudi Arabia Ahead of Crown Prince’s White House Visit
The United States has approved the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking a major development in US-Saudi relations. President Donald Trump announced the deal ahead of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s official visit to the White House.
The agreement fulfills a key Saudi request for advanced military hardware, alongside formal assurances of continued US protection. The F-35, considered one of the world’s most sophisticated fighter jets, represents a significant enhancement of the kingdom’s defense capabilities.
However, the sale raises concerns on multiple fronts. US administrations have historically been cautious about maintaining Israel’s military advantage in the Middle East, a central aspect of US foreign policy. There are also fears that the F-35’s sensitive technology could be exposed or transferred to other nations, particularly China, which maintains strong ties with Saudi Arabia. Similar proposed sales to the United Arab Emirates were previously blocked over comparable security worries.
Timing is another critical factor, as the Trump administration seeks Israeli support for its Gaza peace initiative. Analysts note that while the deal strengthens the strategic partnership between Washington and Riyadh, it may complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.
The F-35 sale highlights the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Middle East and underscores the balance the US must maintain between military partnerships and regional stability.
