Saudi Arabia has halted its efforts to secure an ambitious defence treaty with the United States, which would have required normalizing relations with Israel.
Instead, the kingdom is now pursuing a more modest military cooperation agreement. This change in strategy comes amid intense public disapproval in Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East due to Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Initially, Riyadh had softened its stance on Palestinian statehood, indicating to Washington that a public commitment from Israel to a two-state solution could suffice for normalization. However, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reinstated stringent conditions, demanding tangible Israeli steps toward Palestinian statehood before considering normalization.
Saudi Arabia abandons pursuit of US defence treaty over Israel stalemate https://t.co/hoceYNw8AH
— The Straits Times (@straits_times) November 29, 2024Despite these setbacks, Riyadh and Washington remain hopeful about finalizing a scaled-back defence pact before President Joe Biden’s term ends. Such an agreement would likely enhance joint military exercises and expand cooperation on defence technology, particularly in drone defence and cybersecurity, without committing the U.S. to defend Saudi Arabia in the event of an attack.
The broader U.S.-Saudi treaty, which would require a two-thirds majority in the U.S. Senate, appears off the table without Saudi recognition of Israel. This pivot reflects ongoing geopolitical complexities and domestic pressures within both Saudi Arabia and Israel, where political dynamics hinder any concessions to Palestinians.
Saudi Arabia abandons pursuit of US defence treaty over Israel stalemate#ARYNewshttps://t.co/sU3pHOzbn8
— ARY NEWS (@ARYNEWSOFFICIAL) November 29, 2024The negotiations also include broader reforms and partnerships that could significantly impact regional security, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance and adaptation to the evolving diplomatic landscape.
