In a significant development, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), has alluded to the growing proximity between his nation and Israel in terms of normalizing diplomatic relations. Speaking with Fox News, the Crown Prince shared insights into ongoing negotiations aimed at establishing diplomatic ties between two historical adversaries, Israel and Saudi Arabia.
This revelation comes as the Biden administration in the United States actively pursues efforts to facilitate groundbreaking diplomatic relations between these two regional powerhouses, both of which are pivotal Middle East allies of Washington.
These normalization discussions serve as the linchpin of multifaceted negotiations that encompass various facets, including US security commitments, Riyadh’s quest for civilian nuclear assistance, and the potential for Israel to make concessions in favor of the Palestinians.
When asked about the prerequisites for a normalization agreement, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the significance of the Palestinian issue, stating, “For us, the Palestinian issue is very important. We need to solve that part.” He also expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations, indicating that progress has been made. “We hope that will reach a place that will ease the life of the Palestinians and position Israel as a constructive player in the Middle East,” he added, conducting the conversation in English.
BREAKING: If Iran gets nuclear weapon, we will get it too, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman says in an interview with Fox News pic.twitter.com/rIpAuBSOWO
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) September 20, 2023
Notably, the Crown Prince voiced apprehensions regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, a shared concern of Saudi Arabia and Israel, both of whom aim to curb Tehran’s nuclear aspirations—a goal ardently supported by the United States. While Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman warned against Iran acquiring such capabilities, deeming it a “bad move.” He underscored the global consequences, cautioning, “If you use it, you got to have a big fight with the rest of the world.”
Moreover, when questioned about the potential scenario of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon, the Crown Prince asserted, “If they get one, we have to get one.”
While US officials maintain that a breakthrough remains distant, they privately acknowledge the potential advantages of a comprehensive regional accord. Such an agreement could eliminate a potential flashpoint in the Arab-Israeli conflict, bolster the collective front against Iran, and counter China’s expanding influence in the Gulf region. For President Biden, it could also represent a significant foreign policy achievement, particularly as he seeks re-election in November 2024.
The disclosure of these remarks by the Saudi Crown Prince follows a recent meeting between President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which they pledged to collaborate towards the normalization of Israeli-Saudi relations. Such normalization efforts have the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. Notably, both leaders underscored their shared stance that Iran must not be permitted to acquire nuclear weapons.
By Reuters
