Saudi Arabia’s decision to end all negotiations with Israel comes amid a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East. The two countries have never had formal diplomatic relations, but have cooperated on a number of issues, including security and intelligence.
The decision to end negotiations is likely due to a number of factors, including Saudi Arabia’s concerns about Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians, the US decision to move its embassy to Jerusalem, and the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Saudi Arabia’s concerns about Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians
Saudi Arabia has long been a vocal critic of Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians. The Saudis believe that Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and its blockade of the Gaza Strip are illegal and violate international law. They also believe that Israel’s settlement policies are undermining the prospects for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The US decision to move its embassy to Jerusalem
The US decision to move its embassy to Jerusalem in 2018 was met with widespread condemnation in the Arab world. The Saudis believe that the decision was a provocative act that undermines the status of Jerusalem as a holy city for Muslims, Christians, and Jews.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen
The Saudi-led coalition has been fighting the Houthi rebels in Yemen since 2015. The conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with millions of people displaced and in need of food and medicine. The Saudis believe that Iran is supporting the Houthis, and that Israel is providing intelligence and military support to Saudi Arabia.
The impact of Saudi Arabia’s decision
Saudi Arabia’s decision to end negotiations with Israel is a significant setback for peace efforts in the Middle East. The two countries are key players in the region, and their cooperation is essential to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and other regional challenges.
The decision is also likely to have a negative impact on the US-Saudi relationship. The US has been pressuring Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel, and the Saudi decision is a sign of defiance.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s decision to end negotiations with Israel is a complex one, with a variety of factors contributing to it. The decision is likely to have a significant impact on the Middle East, and it remains to be seen how it will play out in the long term.
