US fast-tracks arms sales to Gulf, Middle East allies as Iran strikes escalate

The US approved a series of emergency arms sales across the Middle East on Thursday, bypassing standard congressional review requirements, in a move aimed at bolstering regional security amid Iranian attacks on neighboring countries.

The largest package was approved for the United Arab Emirates, totaling more than $8 billion. It includes the $4.5 billion sale of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), $2.10 billion for FS-LIDS counter-drone systems, $1.22 billion in Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs), and $644 million in F-16 munitions, including GBU-39 small diameter bombs and Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs).

In parallel, Washington approved an $8 billion deal for Kuwait to buy Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor Radars, significantly enhancing the country’s missile detection and tracking capabilities.

Jordan was also included in the emergency approvals, with a $70.5 million package covering aircraft support and munitions to sustain operational readiness.

All of the sales were designated as emergency transactions, allowing the administration to bypass the usual congressional notification and review process. [alarabiya]