Saudi Arabia Maintains Stance on Israel Diplomatic Relations

Riyadh Reaffirms Stance on Diplomatic Relations with Israel

In a recent statement, the Saudi foreign ministry reaffirmed its stance on diplomatic relations with Israel, insisting that there will be no normalization unless an independent Palestinian state is recognized on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem. Additionally, Saudi Arabia emphasized the need for an end to Israeli "aggression" in the Gaza Strip.

This declaration comes in response to comments from White House National Security spokesperson John Kirby, who suggested positive indications of willingness from Saudi Arabia and Israel to pursue normalization discussions.

Saudi Arabia's Position

The kingdom's position aligns with its longstanding commitment to the Palestinian cause, and the statement aims to convey Saudi Arabia's unwavering stance to Washington in the wake of Kirby's remarks. The potential for formalized ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia has been a subject of debate since the Saudis tacitly endorsed the establishment of relations between Gulf neighbors United Arab Emirates and Bahrain with Israel in 2020.

Suspension of U.S.-backed Plans

Notably, sources familiar with Riyadh's perspective revealed that Saudi Arabia had suspended U.S.-backed plans to normalize relations with Israel in October 2023, amidst escalating tensions between Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israeli forces. The conflict intensified following an incident where militants from Hamas-ruled Gaza killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in southern Israel on October 7.

Complexity of Middle Eastern Relations

Saudi Arabia's position on diplomatic ties with Israel highlights the ongoing complexity of Middle Eastern relations and the significance of the Palestinian issue in the region. The reaffirmation of this stance underscores the kingdom's commitment to advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state as a prerequisite for any potential normalization of relations with Israel.