Pentagon: Washington approves a $2.8 billion logistical systems deal for Riyadh

The Pentagon reported that the State Department approved a potential deal to sell support systems and logistical services to Saudi Arabia worth of $2.8 billion. A Pentagon statement said: 'This approved sale will increase the security of Saudi Arabia, the allied country that constitutes a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region, and will also support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States.' He pointed out that the deal 'will increase Saudi Arabia's ability to deter current and future threats.' The statement explained that the equipment and support approved for the deal will not change the basic military balance in the region. According to an official US statement issued by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Saudi Arabia has requested the purchase of communications equipment, support equipment, engineering and technical assistance, training, and other items related to logistics and program support. White House national security Spokesm an John Kirby said that the two sides are closer than ever to an agreement that is now almost final. Reports indicated that Washington and Riyadh were close to reaching an agreement regarding security guarantees and civilian nuclear assistance. On Sunday, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and they reviewed strategic relations and ways to strengthen them in various fields. They also discussed the semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the Kingdom and the United States, which work is close to being completed, as well as what is being worked on between the two sides in the Palestinian issue to find a credible path towards a two-state solution that meets the aspirations of the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights, in addition to discussing regional developments including This includes the situation in Gaza and the need to stop the war there and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid. Source: National Iraqi News Agency