ABU DHABI, 10 December, 2020, (TON): The US Senate on Wednesday rejected efforts to block the sale of munitions worth $23 billion to the United Arab Emirates, overcoming concerns about sending weapons to Gulf Arab nation, which includes some 50 F-35 fighter jets, at least 18 Reaper drones and other precision weapons.

The United Arab Emirates on Thursday thanked the US for approving an arms sale worth $23 billion.

In a statement, Yousef Al Otaiba, the UAE Ambassador to the US said "The UAE deeply appreciates the consideration of all Senators in today's vote. Continued US support enable the UAE to take on more of the burden for our collective security — ours, yours and our partners.”

"It improves US-UAE inter-operability and allows us to be more effective together. It makes us all safer, be more tolerant and future-oriented.

"The UAE is charting a new positive path for the Middle East. We are committed to regional de-escalation and dialogue."

Last month, US President Donald Trump's administration notified Congress of the intended $23 billion arms sale to UAE.

Congress has shown a willingness to confront Trump on defence policy. But on Wednesday the effort to turn back the arms sales failed to reach the 51-vote majority needed for passage. Trump was expected to veto the two resolutions anyway.

The pair of votes, forced by a bipartisan group of senators, highlighted growing unease in Congress. In a victory for President Trump, the majority voted against the blockade, endorsing his last-minute push to send armed drones and stealth fighter jets to the Emirati military and arguing that bolstering the country’s arsenal would help nations allied against Iran.