Trump Clears Saudi F-35 Sale
The U.S. advanced a potential $24.3 billion F-35 fighter jet sale to Saudi Arabia.
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Updated Sep 18, 1:44pm ETEvery side, every morning
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What happened
The State Department approved a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets and related equipment to Saudi Arabia. Officials said the proposal would not change the region’s military balance, reflecting the U.S. commitment to preserve Israel’s qualitative military edge. Saudi Arabia has long sought the F-35, while Israel is now the only Middle Eastern country operating it. The approval comes as the Houthis have escalated attacks in and around Saudi Arabia. The administration said the deal would strengthen what it called a major non-NATO Gulf ally. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi warned China could gain access to sensitive technology. The sale now goes to congressional review.
How each side covered it
From the left
Left-leaning outlets framed the decision as a risky shift in regional power, stressing possible effects on Israel’s edge. CNN described it as a major military upgrade for a Gulf ally through advanced stealth fighters. CNN also highlighted congressional skepticism tied to deeper Saudi military cooperation and concerns over China ties.
From the right
Right-leaning outlets framed the move as a security step for Saudi Arabia during rising regional threats, while stressing balance would hold. Epoch Times leaned on the administration’s rationale that the deal served U.S. foreign-policy and national-security goals. It also treated the approval as proof of a durable Saudi-U.S. strategic partnership.
Headlines
Center5
U.S. clears potential $24.3B F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia despite security concerns
State Department clears proposed $24.3 billion sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia notches win with F-35 sale
US clears way for $24.3 billion fighter jet sale to Saudi Arabia
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