News Desk (MNN); The United States Department of State has approved a massive $16.5 billion arms sale to key Middle Eastern allies, including the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Jordan, as regional tensions with Iran continue to escalate.
According to the State Department, the largest share — approximately $8.4 billion — will go to the UAE for advanced military equipment, including drones, missiles, radar systems, and F-16 Fighting Falcon jets.
Kuwait is set to receive nearly $8 billion worth of air and missile defence radar systems, while Jordan will receive around $70.5 million in support for aircraft and munitions.
In its statement, the State Department said the deal aims to strengthen US foreign policy objectives and enhance the security of its strategic partners in the region. It described the UAE as a key contributor to political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.
The approval was granted without requiring Congressional consent after Marco Rubio invoked emergency provisions, citing urgent security concerns that necessitated immediate arms transfers.
The move comes against the backdrop of intensifying conflict between the United States and Iran. The administration of Donald Trump joined Israel in launching strikes on Iran on February 28, sparking a broader regional confrontation.
The ongoing conflict has significantly impacted global energy markets. Attacks on Iranian oil infrastructure, including the Kharg Island, have triggered retaliatory threats from Tehran against energy facilities in allied countries such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Additionally, Iran has disrupted tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply flows.
As a result, fuel prices have surged globally. In the United States, gasoline prices have risen from $3.10 per gallon last month to $3.88, according to the American Automobile Association.
The defence contracts are expected to involve major US companies, including RTX Corporation, Northrop Grumman, and Lockheed Martin. However, despite the deal, shares of these firms have shown a slight decline in trading.
Meanwhile, the US Department of Defense is seeking additional funding to sustain ongoing military operations. Reports suggest that the Pentagon has requested up to $200 billion in extra funds.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged the need for increased military spending, stating that significant resources are required to address evolving threats.
This request comes on top of the previously approved $150 billion military funding under recent legislation, pushing total US defence spending beyond $1 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year.
Any further funding will require Congressional approval, though President Trump has defended the proposed increase, citing growing global instability and security challenges.
