Washington designates Saudi Arabia as a "major non-NATO ally."

Arabian Sea Newspaper - Special

The United States officially announced on Wednesday the designation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a "Major Non-NATO Ally" (MNNA), becoming the twentieth country to receive this designation, alongside countries such as Argentina, Australia, Israel, Japan, and South Korea. This designation entitles Saudi Arabia to obtain advanced American weapons, participate in joint weapons development programs, receive funding for military research and development projects, and facilitates training operations and intelligence cooperation, in addition to storing American military equipment for emergencies on its territory. The "Major Non-NATO Ally" designation differs from joint defense agreements, as it does not obligate the United States to direct military defense of Saudi Arabia, while a joint defense agreement imposes a legal obligation to military intervention in the event of any attack on the country. Saudi officials confirmed that the designation represents an important step towards a comprehensive strategic partnership, while the US State Department said that it reflects a long-term commitment to joint security in the region.