US approves US$16 billion arms sale to Israel, Saudi Arabia as Middle East tensions mount

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Associated PressJanuary 31, 2026 at 03:25 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

The Trump administration approved arms sales totaling $16 billion to Israel and Saudi Arabia. The sales, announced by the State Department, include $6.67 billion in arms for Israel and $9 billion for Saudi Arabia, consisting of Patriot missiles and related equipment. The timing coincides with rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly regarding potential US military action against Iran. The Saudi sale aims to bolster a key non-NATO ally's security and promote regional stability. These sales also occur as President Trump advances a ceasefire plan for Gaza, seeking to end the Israel-Hamas conflict and rebuild the Palestinian territory.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Patriot 40% Congress 50% Hamas ×260% Gaza 60% Donald Trump 70% State Department ×270% Iran ×270% Middle East ×280% Saudi Arabia ×280% Israel ×290% United States ×290%

Keywords

arms sale 100% israel 90% saudi arabia 90% middle east 80% tensions 70% us foreign policy 60% military strikes 50% iran 50% ceasefire plan 40% hamas 40%