Trump foresees normalization of Saudi Arabia-Israel ties

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump expressed optimism that Saudi Arabia would eventually become part of the Abraham Accords, a series of agreements normalizing relations between Israel and Arab nations.

“I think Saudi Arabia will end up being in the Abraham accords,” Trump stated while addressing reporters.

During Trump’s first presidency stint, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain signed agreements to normalize relations with Israel.

However, in 2020, Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister stated that the kingdom would not follow the UAE’s lead until Israel reached an internationally recognized peace agreement with the Palestinians.

SKEPTICISM OVER GAZA CEASEFIRE

While signing executive orders in the Oval Office on Monday night, Trump addressed questions about the Gaza ceasefire and the broader peace process.

He admitted uncertainty, saying, “It’s not our war. It’s their war. I’m not confident, but they’re very weakened on the other side.”

Trump remarked on Gaza’s condition, describing it as a “massive demolition site” that needs rebuilding differently. Highlighting its potential, he said, “Gaza is a phenomenal location on the sea” with excellent weather, adding that “some fantastic things could be done with it.”

Commenting on Gaza’s governance, Trump stated, “You certainly can’t have the people that were there. Most of them are dead.”

“But they didn’t exactly run it well. They run viciously and badly,” he said. “You can’t have that.”

POLICY SHIFTS ON ISRAEL EXPECTED

Reports suggest that Trump plans to reverse several policies of the Biden administration concerning Israel. According to Walla News, he is expected to lift the freeze on the supply of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel shortly after taking office.

Additionally, Trump may overturn sanctions imposed by the Biden administration on Israeli settlers accused of violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank.

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