Washington: The US administration under President Donald Trump has approved the sale of military equipment worth more than Rs 80,000 crore to allied countries in West Asia, including Israel.
The move comes in the backdrop of heightened regional tensions after the US and Israel began a war against Iran on February 28, followed by Iranian strikes targeting Israel and US military bases in the region.
US officials said the sales are aimed at strengthening regional security, with Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Israel listed as recipients.
The approval was granted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio using emergency authority, allowing the process to move forward without waiting for parliamentary approval.
Reports said the decision is intended to bolster the defensive capabilities of US partners even as tensions with Iran are said to be easing.
