U.S. Remains Hopeful for Israel-Saudi Normalization Amid Regional Diplomatic Shifts

John Kirby, the White House National Security Council's strategic communications coordinator, expressed optimism about a potential normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. This statement aligns with the Biden administration's goal to expand the Abraham Accords, initially signed under the Trump administration.

Kirby highlighted ongoing efforts towards an agreement between Hamas and Israel to cease hostilities and release prisoners, with discussions involving American, Qatari, and Egyptian officials in Cairo. These developments occur as Saudi Arabia demands an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip following Israeli aggression that began on October 7, 2023, urging for uninterrupted humanitarian aid.

Saudi Arabia's foreign policy has shifted, cooling off plans for US-backed normalization with Israel amid the Gaza conflict. This recalibration comes at a crucial time for U.S. President Joe Biden, who is seeking re-election and facing challenges due to Saudi Arabia’s strengthening relations with Iran, Syria, and China. The UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco's normalization agreements with Israel in 2020 faced widespread Muslim condemnation, particularly from Palestinians who viewed these deals as a betrayal of their cause.