Saudi crown prince fears assassination over Israel relations

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly expressed fears of assassination, according to an article in Politico on Wednesday.

The Saudi crown prince expressed concerns to United States (US) Congress members. Salman said he feared an attempt on his life due to his efforts to build relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

His actions also aim to improve bilateral relations with the United States.

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In his discussion with the US legislators, Salman drew a parallel between his situation and that of former Egyptian President Anwar Sadat. The Egyptian was assassinated following the signing of the Camp David Accords with Israel.

The crown prince also detailed the “personal risks” he faces because of his diplomatic “efforts”.

Salman urged the US Congress members to include a viable path to establishing a Palestinian state in any future agreements with Israel. He noted that current Arab sentiment against Israel is “high,” which could affect regional dynamics and perceptions.

Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia stated that it would not pursue formal diplomatic relations with Israel until an independent Palestinian state was established based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan also reiterated this position in January, indicating that recognition of Israel by Saudi Arabia would be contingent upon resolving the Palestinian issue. The Foreign Minister said that the priority remains achieving a viable ceasefire in Gaza.

Read more: US State Secretary cites progress with Saudis on normalising ties with Israel

He also linked ongoing attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea to the Gaza conflict and called for an immediate ceasefire in the region.

Since Israel began its siege on Gaza in October, Israeli forces have killed over 40,000 Palestinians and injured more than 90,000, including over 15,000 children. The relentless bombardment has heavily impacted the Gaza Strip.