Pakistan, Nov. 5 -- Saudi Arabia's request to buy 48 F-35 fighter jets has cleared a key Pentagon hurdle. Sources said the deal is under review ahead of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's upcoming visit to Washington. The sale would mark a major policy shift, potentially altering military dynamics in the Middle East. It also raises questions about maintaining Israel's "qualitative military edge."

The kingdom made a direct appeal to former President Donald Trump earlier this year. Pentagon officials are now weighing the multi-billion-dollar sale carefully. Several approvals are still needed, including final sign-off from the president and notification to Congress. Lockheed Martin, the jet manufacturer, said the matter is a government-to-g...