US approves nearly $2 billion weapons sale to Saudi Arabia

The US State Department on Wednesday approved a potential foreign military sale to Saudi Arabia worth approximately $1.96 billion. The deal aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia's air defense systems as the kingdom faces increased threats from Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen and the escalation of the US-Israel war on Iran.

In a press release, the State Department said the proposed sale would support US foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the security of a major non-NATO ally that serves as a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region. The principal contractor will be BAE Systems.

Among the weapons sought by the Gulf kingdom are up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems and their warheads. According to the US Navy's website, these systems offer an inexpensive way to destroy targets while limiting collateral damage in close combat.

The sale comes as Saudi Arabia appears on the brink of renewed war with Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis. On Monday, Houthi forces fired missiles at an airport in the southern Saudi city of Abha. The attack followed airstrikes that hit Sanaa airport, diverting a flight carrying a Houthi delegation. The Houthis blamed Riyadh for the strikes.

Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi said on Thursday that all Saudi oil and vital facilities would be targets for the group's missiles and drones if Riyadh involves itself in what he described as "comprehensive aggression" against Yemen.

The deal also comes as the ceasefire between the US and Iran collapses and the US ramps up attacks after imposing a naval blockade. The State Department stated that the sale will not adversely impact US defense readiness.