WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump says he’s ready to approve the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia despite Israel’s reservations.
The announcement signals a major shift in US policy on high-tech weapons transfers to Arab states.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said the Saudis “want to buy them” and called the kingdom a “great ally.”
The move comes a day before Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Washington.
The sale is seen as part of Trump’s push to get Saudi Arabia to normalise ties with Israel under the Abraham Accords. However, Saudi Arabia has maintained its stance on the Arab Peace Initiative, demanding a Palestinian state before formal recognition of Israel.
The proposed deal raises questions about Israel’s military edge, which US law protects. Some Israeli officials have already criticised the idea.
Since 1968, Washington has ensured Israel remains militarily superior to regional rivals. The US has often sold downgraded equipment to Arab states or boosted Israel’s capabilities in compensation.
The F-35, built by Lockheed Martin, is among the world’s most advanced fighter jets. It’s known for stealth features that evade detection.
Israeli opposition figures warn that selling it to Saudi Arabia could trigger a regional arms race.
