The U.S. State Department emphasized on Thursday that any security pact with Saudi Arabia hinges on the kingdom's normalization of relations with Israel. During a press briefing, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller clarified that discussions between the United States and Saudi Arabia are progressing well, but any eventual agreement is part of a broader "package deal."
This comprehensive deal involves multiple linked components, according to Miller. "The potential normalization agreement we are discussing includes not just bilateral agreements between the United States and Saudi Arabia, but also Saudi Arabia's recognition of Israel and a pathway to a two-state solution for the Palestinians," he explained. Miller stressed the interconnected nature of these components, noting, "None go forward without the others."
“None go forward without the others,” State Dept’s Matt Miller suggests the US Saudi defense deal won’t happen without Saudi Israel normalization deal that requires path to two states and Gaza ceasefire.“It’s a package deal.”
— Laura Rozen (@lrozen) May 2, 2024
Recent speculation has suggested that the U.S. and Saudi Arabia might proceed with a defense agreement independently of the Saudi-Israel recognition issue. However, Miller's statements at the briefing seemed aimed at alleviating such concerns, especially after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent visit to the Middle East.
Blinken, who has visited the region seven times since October 7, met with various leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). Following these discussions, Miller described the U.S.-Saudi agreements as "very close" to completion, with only minor details left to be resolved shortly.
Washington and Riyadh are close to finalizing details of a defense pact, but the Gaza war must end for it and normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia to be completed, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Thursday.
— The Jerusalem Post (@Jerusalem_Post) May 2, 2024
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Nonetheless, Miller pointed out significant hurdles that remain, particularly relating to the situation in Gaza and the broader Middle East peace process. "Saudi Arabia has explicitly linked any normalization with Israel to two prerequisites: tranquility in Gaza and a commitment to an independent Palestinian state," he stated.
He also addressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's stance on Palestinian statehood. Netanyahu has consistently opposed unilateral moves toward Palestinian independence, labeling them a "reward" for terrorism. However, Miller reiterated the Biden administration's support for a two-state solution, which he argued aligns with Israel's long-term interests and regional security goals. "Achieving normal relations with its neighbors, isolating Iran, and addressing the challenges in Gaza are essential for Israel's broader security," Miller remarked.
BREAKING:
— Megatron (@Megatron_ron) May 2, 2024
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Saudi Arabia has stepped up the arrest of citizens for social-media posts related to the Israel-Hamas war as the kingdom signals a readiness to agree to diplomatic… pic.twitter.com/aHqKXAj5kl
In conclusion, while the U.S. maintains its position, the ultimate decision rests with the Israeli government regarding these matters. Miller emphasized, "The government of Israel will need to decide what is in the best interest of their people."
