The administration of President Donald Trump has bypassed congressional review to approve more than $8.6 billion in military sales to Israel, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates. The State Department said Secretary of State Marco Rubio determined that an emergency justified waiving the usual review process, citing ongoing regional conflict and security concerns.

The approved sales include air and missile defense support and precision-guided weapons for Qatar, an integrated battle command system for Kuwait, precision-guided weapons for Israel, and additional weapons for the United Arab Emirates. Major United States defense contractors involved in the deals include Lockheed Martin, RTX, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following months of conflict involving Israel and Iran, as well as broader regional instability. United States support for its Middle Eastern allies has drawn criticism from human rights advocates, who have raised concerns about civilian casualties and alleged abuses, though the countries involved have denied wrongdoing and Washington has maintained its backing of its partners.