As President Biden enters his second year in office, negotiations between his administration and Saudi leaders regarding diplomatic relations with Israel are in progress. However, these talks have faced challenges, particularly with the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict last October, causing a setback in the discussions.
Efforts to revive the negotiations and reach a deal have been ongoing, with demands being made for a cease-fire in Gaza and steps towards establishing a Palestinian state. Progress has been made on the key elements desired by the Saudis, including a mutual defense pact between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia and collaboration on a civilian nuclear program in the kingdom.
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan have been actively engaged in discussions with Saudi and Israeli officials to move the negotiations forward.
Despite the potential benefits for Israel in establishing ties with Saudi Arabia, Israeli leaders have shown reluctance to join the negotiations.
The resistance from Israeli leaders, coupled with the possibility of a significant military operation in Rafah, jeopardizes President Biden’s vision of a three-way agreement as a foundation for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stance against the creation of a Palestinian state, as well as the lack of a governance plan for Gaza, further complicates the negotiations.
The potential deal includes a defense treaty between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, cooperation on a civilian nuclear program, and other aspects that hinge on Israel’s acceptance of a Palestinian state.
Amidst the challenges in the negotiations, there are suggestions of a possible “plan B” involving a bilateral deal between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, as achieving progress on the Israeli-Palestinian front remains complex.
While Saudi officials continue to push for a larger deal that includes Israeli commitment to a Palestinian nation, progress has been made in the U.S.-Saudi discussions.
Efforts to persuade Israel to agree to a sustainable cease-fire in Gaza have been met with challenges, as Israel’s military actions in Rafah escalate tensions.
The negotiations also involve considerations of a defense treaty similar to those the U.S. has with its Asian allies, with the aim of addressing security concerns and potential threats in the region.
The discussions include provisions for oversight on nuclear programs and cooperation on military and technology matters, as well as commitments to stabilize oil prices and maintain strategic partnerships.
The negotiations also touch on the development of a civilian nuclear program in Saudi Arabia, a key priority for Prince Mohammed, amid concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The potential deal’s success hinges on Israel’s acceptance of a Palestinian state, which President Biden sees as crucial for resolving the conflict and garnering support for the agreement.
As negotiations continue, the intricate dynamics between the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Israel, and other regional players highlight the complexities of achieving a comprehensive agreement that addresses long-standing conflicts and security challenges in the Middle East.
