US approves $16.5bn arms deal to Gulf states amid rising Iran tensions

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Andy HirschfeldMarch 19, 2026 at 09:06 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

The United States State Department approved a $16.5 billion arms deal with the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Jordan. The deal, announced on Thursday, includes $8.4 billion in drones, missiles, radar systems, and F-16 aircraft for the UAE, $8 billion for air and missile defense radar systems for Kuwait, and $70.5 million for aircraft and munition support for Jordan. The US State Department stated the sales would improve the security of a major defense partner, supporting US foreign policy and national security objectives. The deal does not require congressional approval due to an emergency justification provided by the Secretary of State. This arms sale occurs amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, including recent attacks and threats against energy infrastructure in the region.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Saudi Arabia 40% Qatar 40% Marco Rubio 50% Donald Trump 50% Jordan ×260% Israel ×360% Kuwait ×270% United States Department of State ×280% United Arab Emirates ×380% United States ×590% Iran ×690%

Keywords

arms deal 100% iran tensions 90% us foreign policy 70% middle east 60% national security 60% missile defense 60% regional conflict 50% energy infrastructure 50%