US approves $8.6B arms sales to Gulf allies amid fragile Iran ceasefire

The US State Department approved over $8.6 billion in arms sales to Gulf allies UAE, Israel, Qatar, and Kuwait, citing a national security emergency amid a fragile ceasefire with Iran. The largest deal includes $4.01 billion for Qatar's Patriot missile systems and $2.5 billion for Kuwait's Integrated Battle Command System. These sales come as global military spending hits a record $2.9 trillion in 2025, with the US supporting Ukraine and maintaining strategic arms deals despite regional tensions. This move underscores ongoing US commitment to Middle East security amid uncertain Iran relations.