The Trump administration has approved a $24.3bn sale of advanced F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia, a move aimed at bolstering the kingdom's defense amid escalating attacks from Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen and Shia militants in Iraq. The State Department greenlit a package that could include up to four dozen F-35s, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, and supporting equipment, citing improved deterrence and interoperability with U.S., regional, and NATO forces. However, the sale still requires Congressional approval and faces strong opposition.

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, warned the transfer could threaten U.S. national security by risking Chinese access to the jet's critical technology. The approval follows recent U.S. arms sales to Saudi Arabia, including $5bn in JDAM and BLU bombs and $2bn in precision weapon systems.

Saudi oil output has dropped to its lowest point this year due to the attacks, and the shutdown of a key export pipeline last week sent global oil prices surging.