Post-Gaza: Saudi Arabia Expresses Interest in Normalization with Israel

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n a significant development, Saudi Arabia has expressed its interest in normalizing ties with Israel following the recent genocide in the Gaza Strip. Prince Khalid bin Bandar, the Kingdom’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, revealed that a normalization deal was “close” before the October 7 Hamas attack, emphasizing that any agreement must lead to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

The ambassador, speaking to BBC Radio 4’s “Today” program, stated that Saudi Arabia still believes in normalization with Israel but not at the expense of the Palestinian people. The announcement comes ahead of the resumption of talks to form the next government after the November 2023 election.

Prince Khalid explained that the potential deal was paused after the October 7 incident but reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to normalization with Israel. He dismissed claims that the Hamas attack was intended to spoil Arab normalization efforts with Israel, emphasizing that the roots of the conflict date back almost a century.

A Palestinian state

“We can’t live with Israel without a Palestinian state. We were close to normalization; therefore, close to a Palestinian state. One doesn’t come without the other,” Prince Khalid stated during the interview. He highlighted that Palestinian interests are the top priority in Saudi negotiations with Israel, emphasizing that it’s not just a Saudi-Israeli peace plan but a Palestinian-Israeli peace plan.

Regarding the role of Hamas in a future Palestinian state, the ambassador acknowledged the complexity and the need for careful consideration. Drawing a parallel with the situation in Ireland, he suggested that change is possible with optimism and hope, emphasizing the importance of compromise for a lasting solution.

However, Prince Khalid expressed concerns about Israel’s government, describing it as having an “extreme, absolutist perspective” and failing to work towards achieving compromise. He criticized statements made by Israeli officials, suggesting that similar remarks in other countries would lead to condemnation and, in sensible governments, officials would be asked to leave.

An immediate ceasefire

As part of Saudi Arabia’s immediate plans to end the violence in Gaza, Prince Khalid voiced strong support for an immediate ceasefire. He acknowledged the lack of a perfect, immediate solution and emphasized the need for international involvement in discussions with Palestinians, the international community, and Israel.

The risk of “radicalization” among Gazan civilians was identified as a long-term issue by Prince Khalid. He condemned the “unprecedented level of violence” from “both sides” and called for increased global efforts to address the conflict.

The ambassador urged the UK and other countries to moderate their positions on the conflict, highlighting what he termed as a “blind spot” toward Israel. He emphasized the importance of nuance and perception for lasting peace in the region.

The announcement follows recent discussions between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Al-Ula. Blinken acknowledged the clear interest in pursuing normalization but stressed the need for an end to the Gaza conflict and a practical pathway to a Palestinian state. The developments mark a potentially significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

Sources: Anadolu Agency and Arab News