big challenges await in its next phases<\/a>, including the deployment of an international security force to supervise the deal and the difficult process of disarming Hamas. <\/p>\nThe Saudi sale is for 730 Patriot missiles and related equipment that \u201cwill support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a Major non-NATO Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf Region,\u201d the department said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis enhanced capability will protect land forces of Saudi Arabia, the United States, and local allies and will significantly improve Saudi Arabia\u2019s contribution” to the integrated air and missile defense system in the region, it said. <\/p>\n
It was announced after Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman met with top Trump administration officials like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.<\/p>\n
The sales to Israel are split into four separate packages, including one for 30 Apache attack helicopters and related equipment and weapons, with another for 3,250 light tactical vehicles. <\/p>\n
The Apache helicopters, which will be equipped with rocket launchers and advanced targeting gear, are the biggest part of the total package, coming to $3.8 billion, according to the State Department.<\/p>\n
The next largest portion is the light tactical vehicles, which will be used to move personnel and logistics \u201cto extend lines of communication\u201d for the Israel Defense Forces and will cost $1.98 billion, it said.<\/p>\n
Rep. Gregory Meeks, the ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, accused the Trump administration of rushing to announce the deals for Israel in a way that would “disregard Congressional oversight and years of standing practice.\u201d<\/p>\n
He said in a statement that \u201cthe Trump Administration has blatantly ignored long-standing Congressional prerogatives while also refusing to engage Congress on critical questions about the next steps in Gaza and broader U.S.-Israel policy.”<\/p>\n
Under the deals, Israel will spend an additional $740 million on power packs for armored personnel carriers it has had in service since 2008, the State Department said. The remaining $150 million will be spent on a small but unreported number of light utility helicopters to complement similar equipment it already has, it said.<\/p>\n
In separate but nearly identical statements on Israel, the State Department said none of the new sales would affect the military balance in the region and that all of them would \u201cenhance Israel\u2019s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its ability to defend Israel\u2019s borders, vital infrastructure, and population centers.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability,\u201d the statements said.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\n
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