Friday State Department announcement confirmed $15.67 billion in military sales to strengthen allied capabilities in the Middle East. The dual authorizations for Israel and Saudi Arabia were made public late Friday following congressional notification, coming as the Trump administration navigates complex regional challenges including ceasefire implementation in Gaza and escalating tensions over potential military strikes on Iran.
Israel receives $6.67 billion equipment package spanning four categories designed to modernize multiple operational areas. The centerpiece involves 30 Apache attack helicopters worth $3.8 billion, equipped with rocket launchers and advanced targeting gear that will enhance Israel’s ability to defend its borders, vital infrastructure, and population centers. These sophisticated aircraft will provide superior precision strike capabilities and improved surveillance capacity.
The Israeli procurement includes 3,250 light tactical vehicles valued at $1.98 billion, which will be used to move personnel and logistics to extend lines of communication for the Israel Defense Forces, improving operational flexibility across challenging terrain. Additional allocations provide $740 million for power packs to modernize armored personnel carriers operational since 2008, and $150 million for light utility helicopters to complement existing aerial assets.
Saudi Arabia secures $9 billion air defense systems, specifically 730 Patriot missiles and related equipment designed to enhance protection capabilities. The State Department indicated this enhanced capability will protect land forces of Saudi Arabia, the United States, and local allies, while significantly improving Saudi Arabia’s contribution to the integrated air and missile defense system in the Gulf Region.
Congressional oversight disputed by Democratic leadership questioning the expedited approval process. Representative Gregory Meeks accused the Trump administration of rushing to announce the deals for Israel in a way that would disregard congressional oversight and years of standing practice, while blatantly ignoring long-standing congressional prerogatives and refusing to engage Congress on critical questions about Gaza and broader U.S.-Israel policy.