The Financial Times reported that the United States and Saudi Arabia are in advanced discussions for a new defense agreement, under which an attack on Saudi Arabia would be regarded as a direct threat to U.S. security. The proposed pact, aimed at deepening military ties amid rising regional threats from Iran and its proxies, could be announced during Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the White House next month, according to sources familiar with the talks.

The agreement, if finalized, would expand on the 2017 arms deal and signal a robust U.S. commitment to protect Saudi oil infrastructure and strategic interests. It comes as President Donald Trump seeks to strengthen alliances in the Middle East following the Gaza ceasefire, with Saudi Arabia playing a key role in regional stability. The pact would likely include joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and coordinated responses to aggression, potentially involving U.S. forces in defending Saudi airspace.

Saudi Arabia, a major oil exporter, has faced Houthi missile attacks disrupting Red Sea shipping, prompting calls for enhanced U.S. guarantees. The Financial Times noted that the deal could counterbalance Iran’s influence, though it risks drawing the U.S. deeper into Gulf conflicts. Trump, who has prioritized “America First” while backing Israel, views the agreement as essential for energy security.