US approves possible F-35 Saudi deal despite Israeli push to link normalization, sale - analysis

The US State Department advanced a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 aircraft to Saudi Arabia on Thursday, moving forward without requiring Riyadh to first normalize relations with Israel. Israeli officials had sought to tie the deal to normalization, but the Trump administration is proceeding on a separate track, highlighting a diplomatic shift in Washington's approach to regional security. The sale includes engines, communications systems, and training, with a 30-day Congressional review period now underway. The administration stated the deal will strengthen Saudi Arabia's defenses without altering the regional military balance, while US law requires preserving Israel's Qualitative Military Edge.

The US State Department announced on Thursday that it is advancing a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35A Lightning II aircraft to Saudi Arabia, a move that represents a significant diplomatic shift for Israel. Israeli officials had sought to tie the deal to full normalization between Riyadh and Jerusalem, but the Trump administration is moving forward on a separate track without requiring diplomatic concessions from Saudi Arabia first. The sale includes 49 Pratt & Whitney F135 engines, communications and encryption systems, electronic warfare capabilities, simulators, training, spare parts, and logistical support. A 30-day Congressional review period has now begun. The administration stated the deal will strengthen Saudi Arabia's ability to confront threats and will not alter the military balance in the region. US law requires preserving Israel's Qualitative Military Edge (QME), and Israel currently operates the F-35I Adir. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman conditioned normalization on a two-state solution path, a gap that remains with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. US intelligence warned China could obtain F-35 technology through Saudi ties. The aircraft intended for Saudi Arabia are expected to be less advanced than Israel's version, but key details on capabilities and restrictions remain undisclosed.