The US State Department has given the thumbs-up to a massive $1.96 billion weapons deal with Saudi Arabia, amidst the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The proposed sale is expected to bolster Saudi Arabia's air defenses, with the Gulf kingdom seeking up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems and their warheads.

According to the State Department, the sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major non-Nato ally.

However, the move has been met with criticism from human rights groups, who have expressed concerns over the potential for civilian casualties and the exacerbation of the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

The Saudi-led coalition has faced allegations of war crimes and human rights abuses in the conflict.

As the war in Yemen rages on, the UN has warned of a looming famine and the potential for a devastating cholera outbreak.

The US has a long history of providing military aid to Saudi Arabia.

The two countries have a longstanding relationship, dating back to the 1950s when the US provided financial and military assistance to Saudi Arabia during the country's modernization efforts.

The Saudi-US relationship has only grown stronger since, with the two countries cooperating on a range of issues, including counter-terrorism and energy security.

The weapons deal is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, with the State Department giving the green light for the sale.

The development has been met with widespread criticism from lawmakers and human rights groups.

The deal has also sparked concerns over the potential for the sale to be used for internal repression rather than external defense.

With tensions running high in the region, the sale is likely to fuel concerns over the potential for further escalation.

Key Details

  • $1.96 billion: total value of the proposed sale
  • 20,000: number of Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems sought by Saudi Arabia
  • Yemen: country where the conflict is ongoing
  • UN: global organization that has warned of a looming famine and cholera outbreak in Yemen

'This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a Major non-Nato Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf Region,' the State Department said in a release.

The State Department said the proposed sale of defense articles and services will 'enhance the security of a key partner that continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region.'

Region: Middle East Category: politics Tags: US, Saudi Arabia, weapons sales, Middle East, conflict Meta Description: The US has approved a massive $1.96 billion weapons deal with Saudi Arabia, despite the ongoing war in the Middle East. Image Query: Saudi military jet taking off in Saudi Arabia