US approves possible sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia

The US State Department has approved a potential sale of F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter jets and related equipment to Saudi Arabia, valued at approximately $24.3 billion. Saudi Arabia requested 48 jets and 49 engines to enhance its ability to deter threats and improve military cooperation with the US, regional allies, and NATO forces. The State Department stated that the sale "will not alter the military balance in the region." This potential deal, first reported in late 2025, raised questions regarding its impact on Israel's military advantage as the sole Middle Eastern nation with F-35 access. Then-President Donald Trump confirmed the US would permit the sale in November 2025.