Saudi-Israeli Relations Under the Biden Administration: A Closer Look
The Saudi-Israeli relationship has long been a topic of intrigue in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Under the Biden administration, there have been subtle shifts in the dynamics of this relationship, influenced by both regional concerns and the U.S.’s own foreign policy approach. Here’s a glimpse into the evolving dynamics between Saudi Arabia and Israel during this period.
The U.S.’s Renewed Stance on Saudi Arabia
The Biden administration ushered in a noticeable change in the U.S.’s approach towards Saudi Arabia. Distancing from the close rapport the Trump administration had with the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Biden emphasized human rights concerns, notably the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This new stance placed Riyadh in a position where it needed to recalibrate its alliances and diplomatic outreach.
Indirect Facilitation of Saudi-Israeli Engagement
While the Biden administration has been critical of certain Saudi actions, it has also indirectly facilitated a closer engagement between Saudi Arabia and Israel:
- Shared Concerns over Iran: The Biden administration’s interest in rejoining the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) alarmed both Riyadh and Tel Aviv. Their shared concerns over Iran’s regional ambitions and its nuclear program remain a significant factor pushing them closer.
- Normalization with Arab States: Following the Abraham Accords initiated under Trump, the Biden administration signaled its support for more Arab countries normalizing ties with Israel. Although Saudi Arabia hasn’t publicly joined this group, there are indications of backchannel communications and a gradual shift towards normalization.
Covert Meetings and Shared Interests
Reports have occasionally surfaced of clandestine meetings between Saudi and Israeli officials. For instance, in late 2020, just before Biden took office, it was rumored that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secretly met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia. While both parties did not officially confirm the meeting, such engagements hint at a developing relationship beneath the public eye.
The two nations also see potential benefits in collaboration, especially in areas like technology, agriculture, and defense, offering vast opportunities should they move towards open diplomatic relations.
Public Discourse and Gestures
There have been significant shifts in public discourse within Saudi Arabia regarding Israel. Saudi thought leaders, scholars, and even some officials have occasionally advocated for a more open relationship with Israel. Meanwhile, media outlets in both countries have shown a slight softening in their rhetoric.
The Roadblocks
Despite these positive signs, obstacles remain:
- The Palestinian Issue: Saudi Arabia has historically championed the Palestinian cause. Any overt move towards normalization with Israel would require addressing this issue to avoid domestic and regional backlash.
- Internal Dynamics: There are likely factions within the Saudi establishment resistant to moving too quickly towards normalization without concrete concessions from Israel.
Conclusion
The Saudi-Israeli relationship under the Biden administration appears to be subtly yet steadily evolving. While formal diplomatic ties might still be on the horizon, the shifts in regional geopolitics, combined with mutual interests and concerns, are nudging these two influential Middle Eastern powers closer together. As of 2022, observers and stakeholders in Middle Eastern politics await with anticipation the next chapters in this unfolding diplomatic story.
