US approves sale of F-15 jets’ parts worth $3 billion to Saudi Arabia

2026-02-04 - 04:46

WASHINGTON – The United States has approved the sale of parts for F-15 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, worth an estimated $3 billion. The Pentagon announced the approval, noting that the deal could also see the deployment of a limited number of US contractors or military personnel in Saudi Arabia for long-term assignments. In addition to the F-15 parts sale, the Pentagon confirmed another major arms sale to Saudi Arabia, approving the sale of Patriot missile systems valued at approximately $9 billion. The Patriot missiles and related equipment will enhance Saudi Arabia’s defense capabilities. The US government has also previously approved a $6.5 billion arms sale to Israel, which includes Apache helicopters and light vehicles, among other military equipment. These sales are part of ongoing defense cooperation agreements between the US and its allies in the Middle East, aimed at bolstering regional security. Meanwhile, Iran has successfully convinced the United States to move their ongoing bilateral negotiations from Turkey to Oman, marking a significant diplomatic development in the face of recent tensions between Tehran and Washington. According to foreign news agencies, US President Donald Trump’s administration made the decision after Iran formally requested the change. The talks are now set to take place on Friday in Oman, a neutral ground where both sides have historically conducted discussions. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that Tehran is fully prepared for the upcoming negotiations with Washington. Speaking to the press, President Trump expressed optimism about the talks, stating that Iran appears willing to engage in meaningful discussions. “We are negotiating with Iran, and we hope the talks will be successful,” Trump said during a media briefing at the White House. However, he added that while discussions are ongoing, it remains uncertain whether any concrete results will emerge.