The United States has approved nearly $9 billion worth of weapons sales to key Middle Eastern allies, including Israel and the United Arab Emirates, amid ongoing tensions linked to the Iran conflict.

The decision, cleared by the administration of Donald Trump, includes expedited military transfers to Israel, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. The approvals were granted under an emergency provision, allowing authorities to bypass the usual congressional review process.

Emergency clearance amid ongoing conflict

Officials said the move was necessary due to the evolving security situation in the region, particularly as the conflict involving Iran continues despite a fragile ceasefire. The war, which began earlier in 2026, has heightened instability across West Asia.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio invoked emergency powers to fast-track the deals, citing urgent defence requirements for allied nations.

What the arms package includes

The approved package includes a mix of advanced defence systems and precision weapons:

• Patriot missile defence replenishments worth over $4 billion for Qatar
• Precision-guided weapon systems for multiple countries
• Integrated battle command systems for Kuwait
• Additional advanced weapons support for Israel and the UAE

The total value of these deals is estimated at over $8.6 billion, often rounded to nearly $9 billion.

Timing linked to iran war

The approval comes nearly nine weeks into the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, with tensions still high despite a ceasefire that has been in place for several weeks.

Analysts note that the move signals continued US military backing for its regional allies, particularly in strengthening air defence and precision strike capabilities during uncertain conditions.

Criticism and concerns

The decision to bypass congressional oversight has drawn criticism from some quarters, particularly over transparency and the broader implications of increasing arms supplies in a conflict-prone region.

Fresh voting will be conducted in 15 polling stations across two assembly constituencies in West Bengal on May 2, following complaints of irregularities during the recent polling phase.

The Election Commission has declared the earlier voting at these booths void and ordered repolling to ensure fairness in the electoral process.

Where repolling will take place

The repoll will be held in the Magrahat Paschim and Diamond Harbour constituencies in South 24 Parganas district. Out of the 15 booths, 11 are located in Magrahat Paschim and 4 in Diamond Harbour.

Polling is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 6 pm.

Why repolling was ordered

The decision comes after complaints related to alleged irregularities, including concerns linked to electronic voting machines (EVMs). Authorities reviewed the situation and decided to nullify the earlier voting in these booths to maintain the integrity of the election.

Background of the election

The repoll follows the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections held on April 29, which covered 142 constituencies. The Election Commission has taken multiple steps during the election process to address complaints and ensure free and fair polling.

Congress leader Pawan Khera has been granted anticipatory bail by the Supreme Court of India in a case related to his remarks about Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.

The top court’s decision provides Khera protection from arrest while the investigation continues in the matter, which includes allegations of defamation and forgery.

Case stems from remarks and allegations

The case originates from statements made by Khera during a press conference, where he alleged that the Assam Chief Minister’s wife held multiple foreign passports and had undisclosed assets abroad. These claims were strongly denied by both Sarma and his wife, who described them as false and politically motivated.

Following the remarks, a complaint was filed, leading to an FIR under various provisions, including defamation and related charges.

Legal journey before Supreme Court relief

Khera had earlier faced setbacks in lower courts, including the rejection of his anticipatory bail plea by the Gauhati High Court. He subsequently approached the Supreme Court seeking protection from arrest.

During the proceedings, Khera argued that arrest in the case was unnecessary and would amount to humiliation rather than justice.

What the court’s decision means

The Supreme Court’s order grants interim protection, ensuring that Khera cannot be arrested immediately while legal proceedings continue. The case will now proceed as per law, with investigations and hearings expected to continue in the coming weeks.