Washington: The US Department of State announced the approval of significant military sales to Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates. This development underscores the continuing strategic defense partnerships between the United States and these Middle Eastern nations.

According to Anadolu Agency, the agency has sanctioned the potential sale of Patriot Air and Missile Defense replenishment services and associated equipment to Qatar, amounting to $4.01 billion. Additionally, Qatar is set to receive Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) components, with this deal valued at $992 million. The United Arab Emirates has also been approved for the acquisition of APKWS, costing around $147.6 million.

In a separate transaction, the United States has authorized the sale of the Integrated Battle Command System to Kuwait, a deal that is valued at $2.5 billion. These transactions reflect the US's ongoing commitment to bolstering the defense capabilities of its allies in the Gulf region.

The announcement comes as the US and Israel began strikes against Iran on Feb. 28, prompting retaliation from Tehran against US allies in the Gulf and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.