US approves sale of F

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-09-18 • Permanent link

Cautiously, the US Department of State announced Thursday that it has approved the $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth warplanes to Saudi Arabia, marking the kingdom's latest major arms purchase since the start of the Iran war. The sale is expected to be finalized in the coming months, pending congressional approval. The deal has already sparked concerns among human rights groups, who have long criticized Saudi Arabia's human rights record. The sale is also expected to have significant implications for the global arms trade.

Rising concerns about the deal have led to a sharp decline in Saudi stocks, with the kingdom's Tadawul All-Shares Index plummeting over 2% in early trading. The sale has also sparked a heated debate among lawmakers, with some calling for a congressional review of the deal. The National Security Council has defended the sale, citing Saudi Arabia's long-standing partnership with the US as a key factor in the decision.

Historically, Saudi Arabia has been one of the largest buyers of US military equipment, with the kingdom's arms purchases dating back to the 1970s. However, the sale of F-35s marks a significant escalation of the relationship, with the advanced fighter jet being one of the most expensive and technologically sophisticated arms systems in the world. Industry analysts have praised the deal as a major boost to the US defense industry, which has been struggling in recent years.

Looking ahead, analysts warn that the sale could have significant implications for regional stability, with some experts predicting that the deal could embolden Saudi Arabia's allies in the region. The US has also been criticized for its failure to address human rights concerns in Saudi Arabia, with some calling for a re-evaluation of the country's role in the global arms trade. As the deal moves forward, investors and policymakers will be watching closely for any signs of change in the kingdom's stance on human rights.