Worthy Christian News > Israel-Palestinian Conflict > U.S. Proposes Historic Defense Treaty to Saudi Arabia For Normalization with Israel

U.S. Proposes Historic Defense Treaty to Saudi Arabia For Normalization with Israel

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – The Biden administration is working on a historic defense treaty with Saudi Arabia as part of a strategic effort to foster diplomatic ties between Riyadh and Israel, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.

However, the success of the diplomatic effort depends on Israel’s commitment to a two-state solution and the establishment of a Palestinian state, as well as an immediate end to the war in Gaza.

The U.S. aims to offer Israeli leaders the chance to achieve their long-sought goal of establishing normal relations with Saudi Arabia, paving the way for greater acceptance in the Arab and Muslim worlds. To support an agreement, the Biden administration is pressuring Israel to endorse a credible pathway toward a two-state solution with the Palestinians. However, there is strong opposition to such a solution within the current Israeli government and a majority of Israel’s public.

The Biden Administration is now on the verge of formally committing to protect the oil-rich monarchy, which is pursuing ambitious economic and social development while still suppressing dissent.

A defense deal with the United States would bolster Saudi Arabia’s security but could also heighten tensions with Iran, which competes with Saudi Arabia for regional supremacy and has been strengthening its ties with Russia.

“We should not miss a historic opportunity to achieve the vision of a secure Israel, flanked by strong regional partners, presenting a powerful front to deter aggression and uphold regional stability,” U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters. “We are pursuing this vision every day.”

The treaty, known as the Strategic Alliance Agreement, requires a two-thirds majority vote in the Senate as mandated by the Constitution. It is unlikely to secure enough support from lawmakers without a Saudi commitment to normalize ties with Israel. If approved, the agreement would make Saudi Arabia the only Arab state with a formal U.S. defense treaty.