Title: US Prioritizes Saudi Arabia-Israel Diplomatic Relations, Potentially Marginalizing Palestinians and Raising Concerns in the Middle East
Word Count: 401
In a move that could have far-reaching consequences for US interests in the Middle East, the United States is giving priority to establishing diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. Experts argue that such a move may further marginalize Palestinians and potentially exacerbate regional tensions. The Biden administration’s focus on this objective has raised eyebrows among analysts, who question the reasoning behind this strategic shift.
President Biden’s perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict seems to center on Arab states’ alleged refusal to accept Israel. Last week, a New York Times columnist revealed a purported plan by the Biden administration, which includes providing security guarantees and nuclear assistance to Saudi Arabia. Although the proposed deal would not directly involve Palestinians, it would entail certain concessions such as an Israeli settlement freeze and a pledge against annexation.
Both US officials and Israeli leaders have expressed their desire for formal ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia. However, Saudi Arabia has not officially altered its stance on recognizing Israel, insisting on a fair resolution for Palestinians before establishing diplomatic relations. Nonetheless, the possibility of a deal between these two nations has not been entirely dismissed.
While only a few Arab states have recognized Israel to date, the Trump administration played a significant role in securing agreements between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco in 2020. Skepticism lingers as to whether Israel’s current government, with its far-right elements, would be willing to make concessions on settlements or annexation.
Another potential obstacle is Saudi public opinion, which remains divided on recognizing Israel. To legitimize such a move, Saudi Arabia may need to demonstrate progress in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. Furthermore, the Saudi government seeks security guarantees from the US as part of the deal, but gaining approval from the US Senate could prove challenging.
Some analysts contend that the push for normalization with Saudi Arabia is motivated, in part, by US domestic politics and the pursuit of a foreign policy victory ahead of the 2024 election. However, critics argue that such a deal would do little to alleviate the situation for Palestinians or enhance regional security.
As the United States places diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel high on its agenda, concerns are growing about the potential marginalization of Palestinians and the broader ramifications for the Middle East. The true impact and feasibility of this strategic shift remain to be seen as divergent interests and public opinion pose significant challenges for those seeking to establish closer ties between these two nations.