The United States has decided to resume the sale of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia, ending a three-year suspension that was initially imposed due to concerns over human rights violations in the Yemen war. This decision comes despite Saudi Arabia’s outstanding debt of $15 million for jet fuel provided by the US during the conflict. The move has sparked controversy and raised questions about the implications for US-Saudi relations and the ongoing situation in Yemen.
The Biden administration’s decision to lift the ban on offensive weapons sales to Saudi Arabia marks a significant shift in US policy. The ban, which was imposed in 2021, aimed to pressure Saudi Arabia to end its military campaign against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. However, geopolitical considerations and the evolving dynamics in the Middle East have led to a reassessment of this policy.
The State Department announced that the US would resume weapons sales “in regular order with appropriate congressional notification and consultation.” This decision reflects the administration’s recognition of Saudi Arabia as a pivotal strategic partner in the region. The resumption of weapons sales is expected to include air-to-ground munitions and other offensive capabilities.
Despite the lifting of the ban, concerns remain about the humanitarian impact of the Yemen conflict. Thousands of civilians have been killed in Saudi-led airstrikes, and the war has caused widespread suffering and displacement. The US government has emphasized the importance of mitigating civilian harm and ensuring that future sales comply with international humanitarian law.
Unpaid Fuel Bills
One of the most contentious issues surrounding the resumption of weapons sales is Saudi Arabia’s unpaid fuel bills from the Yemen war. The US provided aerial refueling support to Saudi jets between 2015 and 2018, incurring a cost of approximately $300 million. While Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have paid off a significant portion of the debt, an outstanding balance of $15 million remains.
The Pentagon has been pursuing the repayment of this debt, but Saudi officials have claimed to be unaware of the outstanding balance. This situation has raised questions about the financial accountability of the Saudi government and its commitment to honoring its obligations. The unpaid fuel bills have added a layer of complexity to the US-Saudi relationship, highlighting the challenges of balancing strategic interests with financial and ethical considerations.
The decision to resume weapons sales despite the unpaid debt has drawn criticism from various quarters. Critics argue that it undermines the US’s credibility and sends a message that financial obligations can be overlooked in favor of strategic partnerships. The administration’s handling of this issue will be closely scrutinized as it navigates the complexities of its relationship with Saudi Arabia.
Implications for US-Saudi Relations
The resumption of weapons sales to Saudi Arabia has significant implications for the broader US-Saudi relationship. Saudi Arabia has long been a key ally of the US in the Middle East, and the two countries share strategic interests in countering Iranian influence and promoting regional stability. The decision to lift the ban on offensive weapons sales is likely to strengthen this partnership and enhance Saudi Arabia’s military capabilities.
However, the move also risks exacerbating tensions with human rights advocates and members of Congress who have been critical of Saudi Arabia’s actions in Yemen. The Biden administration will need to carefully balance its strategic objectives with its commitment to human rights and international law. Ensuring transparency and accountability in future weapons sales will be crucial in addressing these concerns
The resumption of weapons sales also has implications for the ongoing conflict in Yemen. While a UN-brokered truce has largely held since 2022, the situation remains fragile. The US has emphasized the importance of maintaining the truce and supporting efforts to achieve a lasting peace. The administration’s decision to resume weapons sales will need to be accompanied by robust diplomatic efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and promote a sustainable resolution.
