Saudi Arabia faces scrutiny over F-35 purchase and Paramount stake
The US approved a potential $24 billion sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia, despite intelligence concerns, while the FCC allowed Paramount to sell 49.5% equity to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar.
The US approval of a potential $24 billion F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia and the FCC's decision to allow Paramount to sell a 49.5% equity stake to Gulf investors raise significant geopolitical and regulatory questions. These moves, while economically substantial, occur amid intelligence concerns and heightened scrutiny over foreign influence in US assets.
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Intelligence concerns over F-35 sale
The Trump administration moved forward with the F-35 sale despite intelligence concerns about Saudi Arabia's potential misuse of the advanced fighter jet. The New York Times reported that these concerns were raised but did not block the deal. The sale, valued at up to $24 billion, was formally approved by the US State Department. [3] [4]
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Paramount stake sale approved by FCC
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved Paramount's plan to sell a 49.5% equity stake to investors from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. This decision allows foreign ownership in a major US media company, raising questions about potential influence over content and operations. The approval was reported by Ars Technica. [5]
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Long-standing Saudi lobbying for F-35
Saudi Arabia had lobbied the US for years to purchase F-35s, the world's most advanced fighter jet, according to BBC News. The approval marks a significant shift in US policy, as previous administrations had resisted such sales due to concerns about regional military balance and human rights. The deal's implications for Middle East security remain a point of debate. [1] [2]
