Pakistan, Nov. 5 -- The Trump administration is considering a Saudi Arabian request to buy 48 F-35 fighter jets, a move that could mark a major policy shift and significantly alter the Middle East's military balance, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The potential deal - worth several billion dollars - has reportedly cleared a key Pentagon hurdle ahead of an expected visit by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The proposal is now under review at the secretary level within the Defense Department, though officials emphasised that no final decision has yet been made.

According to two US officials, the transaction still requires multiple layers of approval, including clearance from the Cabinet, a formal sign-off from President T...