Strengthening US-Saudi relations bolstered by push for Israel normalization

The United States and Saudi Arabia have displayed a remarkable enhancement in their diplomatic ties, spurred by discussions surrounding a potential agreement that could lead to the recognition of Israel by the Gulf nation, according to analysts.

Less than a year after US President Joe Biden issued warnings of potential consequences during a dispute over oil supply with Riyadh, his administration is rapidly engaging with Saudi officials at the highest levels.

Over the past weekend, Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Adviser, arrived in Jeddah for a summit regarding Ukraine – marking his third visit to Saudi Arabia in just a few months.

“While bilateral meetings have covered topics ranging from counterterrorism efforts to the situation in Yemen, the topic of normalizing relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel has been a prominent point of discussion. This focus has contributed to a more positive tone in exchanges, even though the achievement of such normalization is still regarded as challenging”.

“According to Ali Shihabi, a Saudi analyst with close government ties, there is an undeniable warming of US-Saudi relations in recent months. He notes that dialogue has become more extensive and friendly, with the prospect of Israel-Saudi ties acting as a driving force”.

“Although significant obstacles to a formal agreement remain, including Saudi demands for security guarantees and assistance with a civilian nuclear program, the coordination between Washington and Riyadh is described as the best it has been in the last two years”.

“Recognizing the familiar challenges that have historically strained this decades-old relationship, such as human rights concerns and Saudi worries about the reliability of the US as a security partner, recent cooperation with Moscow and Beijing underscores Saudi Arabia’s desire to diversify its international partnerships”.

“Despite this diversification, the presence of the US military in the region remains unparalleled, a point highlighted by the recent deployment of troops to the Red Sea in response to Iran’s actions”.

“Regarding the prospect of Saudi-Israeli normalization, experts emphasize that the onus is on Israel to demonstrate a commitment to progress in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While the newfound warmth between the US and Saudi Arabia is promising, the ultimate outcome of these developments remains to be seen”.