Friday authorization provides Israel $6.67 billion and Saudi Arabia $9 billion in comprehensive military equipment packages designed to strengthen regional security architecture. The State Department made the announcements public late Friday after notifying Congress earlier in the day, with the timing reflecting ongoing regional challenges including Gaza ceasefire implementation and escalating tensions over potential U.S. military operations targeting Iran.
Acquisitions address operational capabilities across multiple domains, with Israel’s package spanning four distinct procurement categories. The centerpiece involves 30 Apache attack helicopters worth $3.8 billion, equipped with rocket launchers and advanced targeting systems that will enhance Israel’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its ability to defend Israel’s borders, vital infrastructure, and population centers.
Israel’s procurement also includes 3,250 light tactical vehicles valued at $1.98 billion to move personnel and logistics while extending lines of communication, improving operational flexibility and rapid response capabilities. Additional funding provides $740 million for power packs to modernize armored personnel carriers in service since 2008, and $150 million for light utility helicopters to complement similar equipment already operational, expanding aerial support capacity.
Saudi Arabia’s $9 billion allocation targets air defense exclusively through 730 Patriot missiles and supporting infrastructure. The State Department emphasized that this enhanced capability will protect land forces of Saudi Arabia, the United States, and local allies, while significantly improving Saudi Arabia’s contribution to the integrated air and missile defense system in the Gulf Region, supporting a major non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress.
Congressional oversight disputed, with Representative Gregory Meeks stating that the Trump administration has blatantly ignored long-standing congressional prerogatives while also refusing to engage Congress on critical questions. The ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee accused the administration of rushing to announce the deals for Israel in a way that would disregard congressional oversight and years of standing practice.