Saudi Commentator on Israel-Saudi Normalization Prospects
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attended a virtual cabinet meeting from his office in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on May 28, 2024.
Despite optimism from US President Donald Trump, the possibility of normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia appears to be fading. Saudi commentator Ali Shihabi, close to Riyadh’s leadership, told the New York Times that such an agreement is “virtually impossible” before year-end without a “miraculous change” in Jerusalem.
Upcoming Discussions in Washington
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), expected to visit Washington soon, is likely to discuss normalization with the American president. However, Shihabi noted that MBS ties progress to an irreversible move toward establishing a Palestinian state, which the current Israeli government rejects.
Normalization as a Political Lever
For Riyadh, normalization remains a key diplomatic tool to advance the Palestinian cause. Shihabi explains:
“The kingdom wants to use this card to try to resolve the issue once and for all, for the sake of lasting regional stability.”
This demand for Palestinian statehood stands as a critical barrier, as it is unacceptable to Israel’s current government.
Summary
The chance of Saudi-Israeli normalization soon hinges on major developments in the Palestinian issue, with Riyadh insisting on statehood as a prerequisite, complicating diplomatic efforts.
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