From Normalising Relations With Israel To Concerns About Iran's Nuclear Bid, Here's What Saudi Crown Prince Said In Recent Interview

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) stated in a recent US television interview that his country is steadily progressing towards normalising relations with Israel.

He expressed concerns about Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon, stating that if that were to happen, Saudi Arabia would feel compelled to acquire one as well.

According to excerpts from an upcoming interview with Fox News, the crown prince mentioned that talks between Israel and Saudi Arabia aimed at establishing diplomatic relations are advancing every day.

This marks a significant step towards a potential landmark agreement between the two long-time adversaries.

The crown prince's interview with the conservative US network coincides with President Joe Biden's administration's efforts to facilitate historic ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

Both countries are key allies of the US in the Middle East.

The negotiations for normalisation of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel encompass various complex aspects.

These include discussions on US security guarantees, civilian nuclear assistance sought by Riyadh, and potential concessions by Israel to benefit the Palestinians. These talks serve as the focal point of the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The crown prince stated, “For us, the Palestinian issue is very important. We need to solve that part.”

MbS expressed concerns about the potential for Iran, a common adversary of Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the US, to acquire nuclear weapons.

If Iran were to acquire a nuclear bomb, MbS believes that Saudi Arabia would also need to obtain one.

Although US officials maintain that a breakthrough is unlikely in the near future, they privately acknowledge the potential advantages of a comprehensive regional agreement.

This could include resolving a potential conflict in the Arab-Israeli relationship, strengthening defences against Iran, and countering China's influence in the Gulf.

Additionally, President Biden could achieve a foreign policy victory as he seeks re-election in November 2024.

Following a meeting between President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the crown prince's comments will be broadcast.

During the meeting, both leaders expressed their commitment to working together towards normalising relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Such a normalisation could have significant implications for the geopolitics of the Middle East.

Both President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu have also emphasised the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.