Washington – The Obama administration has approved a $1.3 billion sale of bombing munitions to Saudi Arabia as its air force strikes rebel targets in Yemen.
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The State Department says the package includes several laser-guided and other bomb models. A statement says the deal “replenishes” weapons stocks that are being depleted in Saudi counterterrorism operations.
Congress has been notified, initiating a 30-day delay period. It’s unclear when the new supplies will ultimately arrive.
The U.N. and human rights groups have criticized the Saudi-led campaign in Yemen for killing innocent civilians.
But State Department spokesman Mark Toner on Monday stressed that Houthi (HOO’-thee) rebels must “cease harassing and attacking Saudi citizens and Saudi territory.” He reiterated American support for U.N. peace efforts.
Washington says all sides in the conflict should avoid civilian deaths.