US prepares to lift ban on sales of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia

The Biden administration plans to relax restrictions on weapons sales to Saudi Arabia, citing the kingdom's peace talks with the Houthis in Yemen. The ban was imposed two years ago due to concerns about civilian casualties. The expected easing of limits comes as Saudi Arabia seeks a US-backed peace accord with the Houthis. The move could be reversed if it is not in US interests. Some lawmakers oppose the policy shift, while Saudi Arabia argues it needs offensive weapons to protect its border and handle escalating tensions in the region.