U.S. fast-tracks $8.6 billion in emergency arms sales to Israel, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE as negotiations with Iran remain stalled. The State Department used an emergency provision to bypass congressional review, allowing immediate weapon transfers. This marks the third time the Trump administration has circumvented Congress during the ongoing conflict.

The deals include Patriot missile systems, laser-guided rockets, and aerial defense tech, with Qatar paying over $4 billion for interceptors. Stockpiles of U.S.-made missiles have dwindled due to war demands, raising concerns about production delays. The move aims to counter Iran’s repeated attacks on Gulf allies, which have caused civilian and military casualties.

Democratic lawmakers criticized the bypass, arguing it undermines transparency and accountability. The Biden administration previously used similar emergency measures during the Gaza war. Meanwhile, tensions persist in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran threatening further escalation if talks fail.

The conflict has strained U.S. defense resources, with officials warning that arming allies risks depleting domestic supplies. As peace talks deadlock, the U.S. faces a high-stakes balancing act between regional security and domestic political pressures.