Saudi Arabia has purchased its first Iron Dome missile defense system from Israel, Gulf-based Arabic news website Al-Khalij Online reported on Thursday.

The deal was reportedly carried out thanks to American mediation.

According to the report, Israel was at first reluctant to sell its weapon system to a prominent Arab state, however, was convinced to do so by the Americans after receiving assurances that the move would not compromise the security of Israel or its allies.

Reportedly, Saudi Arabia will position the Iron Dome system on its border with Yemen, from which Houthi rebels have been firing rockets into the Suni kingdom.