USA (Washington Insider Magazine)— Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met in Dhahran to review a semi-final version of a draft strategic agreement between the two countries, which is nearing completion.
The talks, held in Dahran, also highlighted the ongoing conflict in Gaza and efforts to ceasefire and facilitate access of humanitarian aid.
Boosting Bilateral Relations
The meeting emphasized enhancing the strategic relations between the two nations. Sullivan and Bin Salman reviewed the almost finalized versions of strategic agreements, aimed at reinforcing cooperation across various fields.
Regional Developments and Humanitarian Efforts
According to Aurora, The top security advisor to President Joe Biden and the de facto leader of Saudi Arabia also spoke about ending the war against Hamas troops in Gaza, finding a “credible track for bringing about the two-state solution” for Israel and the Palestinians, and facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid, according to the statement. To satisfy the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people, they emphasized the cooperative efforts to provide a plausible route towards a two-state solution.
Details of Strategic Agreements Unrevealed
While the SPA mentioned the advanced stage of the strategic agreements, it did not provide specific details about their content. The nature and implications of these agreements remain undisclosed.
Upcoming Visit to Israel
According to Reuters, , after visiting Saudi Arabia, Sullivan intends to visit Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other authorities. This visit will underline strategies for obtaining hostage release, managing the humanitarian crisis, and achieving the common goal of destroying Hamas via both military and political means.
Saudi Arabia’s Importance in Peace Efforts
Saudi Arabia’s role is very essential in potential agreements that could help stop the Gaza conflict, with the possibility of normalizing relations with Israel. Such normalization is contingent upon progress towards a two-state solution, a stance reiterated by Saudi officials. The United States has also stressed that any defence agreement with Saudi Arabia would require Israel to commit to a future Palestinian state.
Netanyahu’s Stance
In response to negotiations for Saudi normalization, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed that he opposed the notion of a Palestinian state establishment, citing fears about future terrorism.
Sullivan’s talks in Israel are expected to include the results of his negotiations in Riyadh, as well as future preparations for Israel’s military actions in Rafah.
