Trump Secures $142 Billion Arms Deal with Saudi Arabia, Signals Shift in U.S. Policy on Syria

Report by Safarti Tarjuman Business Desk

The United States and Saudi Arabia have finalized a historic $142 billion arms agreement, hailed by the White House as the “largest defense sales deal in history.” The announcement came during the first stop of former President Donald Trump’s four-day diplomatic tour of the Gulf states, emphasizing transactional diplomacy and economic ties.

Trump’s visit, marked by high-level meetings and lavish receptions, included a key development in U.S.-Syria relations. The former president confirmed plans to meet Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, signaling a dramatic shift in policy toward Damascus. Sharaa, a former rebel commander who played a pivotal role in the 2024 ousting of Bashar al-Assad, reportedly offered reconstruction contracts, Syrian oil access, and even a proposed Trump Tower in Damascus in exchange for sanctions relief.

Addressing an investment summit, Trump declared his intent to lift U.S. sanctions on Syria. This potential move has stirred both celebration in Damascus and concern in Washington. According to sources close to the Syrian government, Trump is expected to be presented with a mock-up of the Trump Tower Damascus design during his meeting in Riyadh.

The White House outlined the arms deal’s scope, which includes collaboration across air defense, space capabilities, border security, and maritime defense. Over a dozen U.S. defense contractors are expected to benefit. In addition to the arms deal, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pledged a $600 billion investment in the U.S. economy.

Despite the grand figures announced, specifics of these commitments remain unclear, and several initiatives reportedly began under President Biden’s administration.