The United States and Saudi Arabia are nearing an agreement on a historic pact that would offer security guarantees to the kingdom and potentially pave the way for diplomatic relations with Israel if the Israeli government halts the conflict in the Gaza Strip. This was reported by Bloomberg, citing sources.
The deal has faced numerous obstacles, but it represents a new version of agreements that stalled after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 last year. Negotiations between Washington and Riyadh have accelerated, and many officials are optimistic that a deal could be reached within weeks.
Such an agreement could potentially change the Middle East. In addition to enhancing the security of Israel and Saudi Arabia, it would strengthen US positions in the region amidst the influence of Iran and China. The deal may be so significant that it would require approval from the US Senate and could provide the world’s largest oil exporter, Saudi Arabia, access to advanced American weaponry previously unavailable to them.
Once the US and Saudi Arabia reach an agreement, they will present Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with a choice: either join the pact, which could lead to official diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia, increased investment, and regional integration, or “be left behind.” A key condition for Netanyahu would be a significant step – ending the war in Gaza and agreeing to the path to Palestinian statehood. This proposal is met with skepticism and may not materialize, acknowledge sources familiar with the plans, according to Bloomberg.
