US Approves Potential F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia, Shifting Regional Balance

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential sale of advanced F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a move that could significantly alter the military balance in the Middle East and test Washington's commitment to maintaining Israel's "qualitative military edge." The deal, valued at approximately $24.3 billion, includes 48 fighter jets and 49 engines, along with associated communication equipment and support. Saudi Arabia had previously approached former President Donald Trump about purchasing the aircraft, and the kingdom has long expressed interest in the Lockheed Martin jet.

The potential sale comes as Saudi Arabia seeks to modernize its air force and counter regional threats, particularly from Iran. The F-35, a stealth fighter jet, is considered the world's most advanced combat aircraft. Israel has operated the F-35 for a decade and remains the only country in the Middle East to possess the system. The U.S. policy has been to ensure Israel receives more advanced weaponry than Arab nations in the region.

This potential F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia was previously considered as part of a broader diplomatic effort that included normalizing relations between Riyadh and Israel, but those efforts did not materialize. Former President Trump has been actively pursuing arms deals with Saudi Arabia since returning to the White House, including a significant security cooperation agreement in 2025. However, the sale could face hurdles in Congress, as some lawmakers have previously raised concerns about arms deals with Riyadh following the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

In other news, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's delegation will be allowed to attend the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York, though under movement restrictions and prohibitions on purchasing luxury goods. Additionally, protests occurred for a second consecutive night in Savyon, outside the home of Rachel Shore, co-creator of the film "Nezah," which alleges Israel used AI to systematically harm civilians in Gaza, a claim the IDF denies.