Saudi Arabia has decided to halt its US-supported efforts to normalizerelations with Israel, indicating a rapid shift in its foreign policy focusdue to the escalating conflict between Israel and the Palestinian groupHamas. This conflict has prompted Saudi Arabia to engage with Iran, withCrown Prince Mohammed bin Salman holding his first phone call with IranianPresident Ebrahim Raisi in an attempt to prevent a wider escalation ofviolence in the region.
According to two sources cited by Reuters, there will be a delay in thetalks aimed at normalizing relations with Israel, which was a significantstep for Saudi Arabia in its pursuit of a US defense pact.
Prior to the outbreak of hostilities initiated by Hamas on October 7 with adevastating attack on Israel, both Israeli and Saudi leaders had beenindicating progress towards a potential agreement that could have reshapedthe Middle East.
Saudi Arabia had previously signaled its commitment to pursuing a USdefense pact even if Israel did not make substantial concessions to thePalestinians in their quest for statehood.
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However, a strategy that sidelines the Palestinian issue could risk the ireof Arab nations in the region, especially as Arab media outlets broadcastimages of Palestinians killed in Israeli retaliatory airstrikes. Theconflict has resulted in a significant number of casualties on both sides.