Israel and Saudi Arabia Reach Normalization Breakthrough with Vague Commitment to Palestinian Statehood, Despite Saudi Denial

Dec 17, 2024, 06:35 PM

Israel and Saudi Arabia have reportedly reached a breakthrough in their normalization talks, according to Haaretz. The agreement involves Israel providing a vague commitment to a 'path towards Palestinian statehood' rather than an explicit recognition of a Palestinian state, as per Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's (MBS) stance. This development is believed to be tied to a potential ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza, which could also involve Saudi Arabia in the reconstruction efforts. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes that MBS's limited interest in Palestinian statehood and the vague commitment will secure domestic and political support for a ceasefire deal with Hamas. However, a Saudi official has denied the existence of such a breakthrough, stating that Saudi Arabia's commitment to an independent Palestinian state remains unchanged and that normalization with Israel is contingent on ending the war in Gaza.