Washington Intends to Proceed with Sale of F-35 to UAE
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The US confirms its intention to proceed with the sale of F-35 jets to Abu Dhabi after reaching an understanding.
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An F-35 exercise at Hill Air Force Base, Utah (Source: U.S. Air Force)
A US official announced today that the US intends to move forward with the sale of 50 F-35 stealth fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates, but there must be a clear understanding of "Emirati obligations."
Mira Resnick, a deputy US assistant secretary of state, said in a call with reporters: "We continue consulting with Emirati officials to ensure we have unmistakable, clear mutual understanding with respect to Emirati obligations and actions before, during, and after delivery." Resnick did not elaborate on what these obligations are.
The sale of 50 F-35 fighter jets to the UAE was halted due to US worries about Abu Dhabi's ties with China, notably the country's use of Huawei 5G technology.
During Trump's term, the US agreed to sell the fighter jet. The transaction will be completed this year, according to statements made by President Joe Biden's administration.
Steps leading to the deal
The US State Department said last March that the US administration intends to move forward with the sale of jets to the UAE even as they continue to review the details and consult with Emirati officials regarding the use of the weapon platforms.
The US, under former President Donald Trump, approved selling the fighter jets after the UAE normalized its relations with "Israel" last year.
"Israel" initially rejected the anticipated sale agreement, but it ceased opposing it after obtaining what it said were US guarantees that "Israel" would maintain its military superiority.
