The United States has approved arms sales worth $230 billion to three Middle Eastern countries as tensions with Iran intensify. According to the US State Department, the United Arab Emirates will receive air defense systems and related equipment valued at over $80 billion, including missiles, drones, radar systems, and ammunition for F-16 fighter jets. Kuwait will purchase military equipment worth $80 billion, featuring missile defense and radar systems. Jordan will receive $75 million in aircraft and ammunition support.

A State Department official, speaking anonymously, said an additional $6 billion in arms sales to the three countries had also been approved. These did not require congressional notification because they were part of previously authorized packages or purely commercial transactions.

The arms deals come as regional tensions rise due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, with the US reinforcing defense cooperation with its Arab partners in the Middle East.