Democrats support Israeli-Saudi Agreement, amid security concerns
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- Web Desk
- Oct 05, 2023
WASHINGTON: Twenty Democratic senators have voiced their support for a potential normalisation agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia but have raised concerns regarding security assurances and nuclear assistance to Riyadh.
In a letter addressed to President Joe Biden, these senators highlighted the potential resistance from Congress if the administration facilitates a groundbreaking diplomatic relationship between Saudi Arabia and Israel in exchange for meeting Riyadh’s demands.
While negotiations are progressing, US officials have cautioned that there is still much work to be done. One of the key suggestions from the Democratic senators is that any agreement should include “significant” provisions that uphold the possibility of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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They anticipate resistance from Israel’s far-right government when it comes to making substantial concessions to the Palestinians.
The senators emphasised that achieving peace between Israel and its neighboring countries has long been a priority in US foreign policy. They stated that they are receptive to any agreement that could potentially strengthen the political, cultural, and economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel. However, they expressed reservations about the Saudi demands.
It is noteworthy that Saudi Arabia is determined to secure a military pact with the United States, requiring US defense commitments, as part of the agreement to establish ties with Israel.
