The United States has temporarily suspended a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan in order to conserve ammunition for its ongoing conflict with Iran. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao informed lawmakers of the decision during a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearing on Thursday. The suspension follows a recent meeting in Beijing between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, where the arms deal was a key topic of discussion.

Cao stated that the pause is intended to ensure sufficient ammunition for Operation Epic Fury, adding that the sale could resume when the administration deems appropriate. The final decision will rest with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Although the U.S. Congress approved the package in January, it still requires President Trump’s signature to take effect. Taiwan’s Prime Minister Cho Jung-tai said the island will continue efforts to purchase the weapons.

Analyst William Yang warned that the suspension could heighten doubts about U.S. support for Taiwan and complicate future defense budget requests. Trump also suggested the deal might serve as a bargaining tool in talks with Beijing.