US Approves $24 Billion F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia

The U.S. State Department announced Thursday it has approved a major arms deal with Saudi Arabia, authorizing the sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and related equipment valued at approximately $24.3 billion. The deal now requires approval from the U.S. Congress to proceed.

According to the State Department, the sale aims to support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by bolstering the capabilities of a key non-NATO ally, promoting regional stability, and enhancing Saudi Arabia's ability to deter existing and future threats. The jets are intended to improve Saudi Arabia's air defense and joint operational capabilities with U.S. and NATO forces, without altering the military balance in the region.

In other developments, U.S. President Donald Trump stated he faces a "big decision" regarding potential large-scale military action against Iran, ahead of a meeting with Gulf leaders at the UN General Assembly. Meanwhile, the British Maritime Trade Operations reported a vessel attack in the southern Red Sea near Oman. The U.S. State Department also confirmed that an Iranian delegation would be allowed to attend the UN General Assembly, albeit with movement restrictions.

Separately, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the final dismissal of the Gaza Division's operations officer from October 7th, holding him responsible for failures leading up to the Hamas attack. The IDF also reported the elimination of a Hamas Nukhba operative involved in the Erez crossing attack on October 7th and another Nukhba commander in northern Gaza.