Saudi Arabia and Israel are on the verge of a historic normalization deal that would reshape the Middle East and alter the course of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The deal, mediated by the United States, would see Saudi Arabia recognize Israel as a sovereign state and establish diplomatic, economic, and security ties with it.
In return, Saudi Arabia would receive US assistance in developing its civilian nuclear program, as well as fewer restrictions on US arms sales and security guarantees.
The deal would also require Israel to make some concessions to the Palestinians, such as freezing settlement construction in the occupied West Bank and resuming peace talks.
The potential agreement has been met with mixed reactions from other Muslim countries, some of which have already normalized relations with Israel, such as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan.
These countries have welcomed the prospect of Saudi Arabia joining them in forging closer ties with Israel, hoping that it would create more opportunities for regional cooperation and stability.
They have also praised Saudi Arabia for its continued support of the Palestinian cause and the Arab Peace Initiative, which calls for a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders.
However, some Muslim countries have expressed their opposition to any normalization deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel, such as Iran, Turkey, Qatar, and Malaysia. These countries have accused Saudi Arabia of betraying the Palestinian people and their rights, as well as undermining the Islamic solidarity and unity. They have also warned that such a deal would only embolden Israel to continue its aggression and occupation of Palestinian lands, and increase the tensions and conflicts in the region. They have urged Saudi Arabia to reconsider its decision and to stand by the Palestinian cause until a just and comprehensive solution is reached.
The normalization deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel is expected to be announced soon, possibly before the end of this year. The deal would mark a major shift in the Middle East politics and dynamics, and have significant implications for the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the regional security.
The deal would also pose new challenges and opportunities for other Muslim countries, who would have to decide whether to follow Saudi Arabia’s lead or to maintain their stance against Israel.