Luke Allen
Military Political Analyst
Makati, Manila
lukeallenmanila@journalist.com
In a surprising turn of events, the United States announced on Monday that it will lift the ban on offensive weapons sales to Saudi Arabia, in a move aimed at improving relations with the Gulf kingdom. This decision marks a significant policy reversal since President Joe Biden imposed the restrictions shortly after taking office in January 2021.
The Biden Administration ban was initially implemented in response to Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the protracted and devastating conflict in Yemen, which has resulted in a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale. The war, which began in 2015, has led to the deaths of tens of thousands of people and left millions more on the brink of famine. The use of American-made weapons in attacks that have caused civilian casualties drew sharp criticism from human rights organizations and lawmakers, prompting the Biden administration to take a firm stance against further military support.
“The decision to lift the ban on offensive weapons sales was not taken lightly,” a senior administration official said. “However, it reflects our commitment to re-engage with our partners and address broader geopolitical challenges in the region.”
The U.S. administration highlighted several factors behind this policy shift. First and foremost, the Saudi government has made recent strides in efforts to de-escalate the conflict in Yemen. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is willing to negotiate with Houthi rebels. He has taken steps to reduce airstrikes and military offensives, creating a window of opportunity for peace talks. These developments were vital in the U.S. reassessment of its stance.
Furthermore, the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East has evolved considerably. Iran’s growing influence and the resurgence of extremist groups in the region have necessitated a recalibration of alliances and military strategies. By lifting the ban, the U.S. aims to bolster Saudi Arabia’s defensive and offensive capabilities, enhancing its role as a counterbalance to Iranian influence and a stabilizing force in the region.
Critics, however, warn that this move could reignite violence in Yemen and undermine the fragile peace process. “Resuming the sale of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia risks exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, Executive Director of Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN). “The U.S. should prioritize diplomatic efforts and humanitarian aid over military support.”
In response to these concerns, the Biden administration has promised stringent oversight and conditions on future arms sales. “We will ensure that any weapons provided are used in a manner consistent with international humanitarian law and do not contribute to further suffering in Yemen,” the senior official added.
The decision has also been framed within the context of improving bilateral relations. The U.S.-Saudi alliance has faced strains in recent years over issues such as human rights abuses and the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. By lifting the ban, the Biden administration hopes to open new channels of dialogue and cooperation with Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas such as energy security, counterterrorism, and economic development.
As the U.S. navigates this complex and evolving relationship, the world will be watching closely to see how this policy shift impacts the broader dynamics of the Middle East. The hope is that it will pave the way for a more stable and peaceful region, though the risks and challenges remain significant.