Trump Sets Terms for Iran Deal as US Clears $24.3 Billion F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia
US President Donald Trump has made it clear that any agreement with Iran must meet Washington's expectations, as his administration approved a possible $24.3 billion F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia ahead of expected talks with Gulf leaders on the conflict and its aftermath.
The developments bring two strands of Washington's Gulf policy into focus: pursuing an agreement with Tehran while strengthening the military capabilities of a key regional partner. Gulf countries hosting American military bases have faced Iranian attacks during the conflict, while disruptions to oil and natural gas exports have hit their economies.
Trump has signaled both an opening for diplomacy and uncertainty over whether Iran is ready to accept an agreement. He told ABC 11 that 'Iran wants to make a deal; they're not ready, in my opinion. We're gonna either make a deal that's good, or we're not gonna make a deal at all.'
The US State Department on Thursday approved a potential Foreign Military Sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II aircraft and related equipment to Riyadh. The department said the package would strengthen Saudi Arabia's homeland defence, help it deter current and future threats, and improve its ability to operate alongside US, regional, and NATO forces.