The UAE National Day 2025 holiday has been extended, with private sector employees enjoying a four-day weekend, while students in Sharjah will get five days off under the new Cabinet holiday policy.
In a major policy shift, US President Donald Trump announced plans to approve the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, just a day before Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s White House visit. If finalized, this deal would make Saudi Arabia the first Arab nation to join the elite F-35 program.
Trump described Saudi Arabia as a “great ally” and confirmed the kingdom’s interest in acquiring the jets. The potential sale aligns with broader US efforts to strengthen regional partnerships, including initiatives aimed at fostering Saudi-Israel ties under the Abraham Accords.
However, the announcement has sparked concern in Israel over maintaining its long-standing “qualitative military edge.” Israeli officials warned the sale could trigger a regional arms race and compromise Israel’s security. Historically, the US has balanced such deals by upgrading Israel’s systems or modifying weapons sold to Arab states.
Saudi Arabia has requested up to 48 F-35 fighters in a potential multibillion-dollar agreement already cleared by the Pentagon. The jets, made by Lockheed Martin, are among the world’s most advanced, featuring stealth technology to evade detection.
The deal comes amid rising tensions in Gaza and the broader Middle East. Trump cited US military actions in the region, including a strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, as proof of Washington’s commitment to regional security. Analysts warn that approving the F-35 sale could significantly shift the Middle East’s military balance.
Congress retains the authority to block the sale, serving as a potential check on the administration’s plan. Meanwhile, Saudi media reported that Prince Mohammed received a handwritten letter from Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian ahead of his visit, though details remain undisclosed.
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