USA (Transatlantic Today) – The United States and Saudi Arabia have made significant progress to boost their defence cooperation. This cooperation is essential for a full “mega-pact” that could prelude restoring relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. These advances occurred during a weekend meeting in Saudi Arabia between White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as reported by White House spokesperson John Kirby.
Agreement Nears Finalization
Kirby announced that the agreement is closer than ever, with the text detailing the terms nearly finalized. Although no date has been set for an official announcement, Kirby highlighted that this weekend’s discussions led to historic progress in the bilateral agreements between the US and Saudi Arabia. The Saudi government echoed this sentiment, with the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) indicating that the draft of the “strategic agreements” is almost complete.
Reactivation Amid Gaza Conflict
According to EFE, the details of the “mega-pact” have not been publicly disclosed, overshadowed by the October 7 Hamas attack and the subsequent Israeli offensive in Gaza. However, recent days have seen a reactivation of these negotiations, which now play a crucial role in discussions to end the war in Gaza and rebuild the region.
Defense Pact and Strategic Considerations
Reports from American media reveal that the negotiations include a defense pact enabling Saudi Arabia to bolster its defense capabilities against Iran, considered its primary regional threat. This pact would grant Riyadh long-term access to advanced weaponry, ensuring uninterrupted supply despite potential diplomatic conflicts, a significant point given the congressional response to the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Technological and Nuclear Provisions
The agreement may also permit Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium, with Washington likely imposing conditions to prevent the development of nuclear weapons. Additionally, Saudi Arabia would agree to limit the use of Chinese technology in its critical networks, aligning with US efforts to curtail China’s influence in the region.
Broader Middle East Implications
Once the United States and Saudi Arabia reach an agreement, the next stage is to secure Israel’s assent to form a Palestinian state and stop the Gaza conflict. This goal poses hurdles, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right political allies reject the establishment of a Palestinian state and push for the expansion of Israeli settlements in disputed territory.
