The USA and Saudi Arabia have signed a security agreement that facilitates arms transfers and strengthens bilateral relations, without defense guarantees.

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday a security agreement between the USA and Saudi Arabia, which will facilitate arms transfers and strengthen the relationship between the two countries. Saudi Arabia will be designated a "major non-NATO ally," which deepens defense cooperation but does not include a security guarantee. This adds to the other 19 countries in this category, including Israel and Qatar. Although Saudi Arabia has been an important ally of the USA in the Middle East, relations have sometimes been strained due to issues related to human rights and oil policy. At a gala dinner at the White House, Trump emphasized that a stronger alliance will advance the interests of both countries and contribute to peace. The agreement will also allow the storage of American weapons in Saudi Arabia and will make the country eligible for maintenance contracts with the Pentagon. Although the relationship is strengthening, the USA is not obligated to defend Saudi Arabia as it would with NATO allies.