Blinken Advocates Saudi-Israel Ties During Conflict

AFP/APP

Riyadh: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Saudi Arabia seeking to advance discussions on normalizing relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. This effort aims to create a historic deal that could provide incentives to end the ongoing war in Gaza.

Blinken’s visit comes just days before the US election and follows a direct flight from Tel Aviv to Riyadh—a journey that commercial airliners do not typically facilitate.

Speaking to reporters upon his arrival in Tel Aviv, he emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on the “strategic prize” of Israel-Saudi normalization, despite the challenges surrounding a ceasefire in Gaza.

“There remains, despite everything that’s happened, an incredible opportunity in this region to move in a totally different direction,” Blinken stated, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in this potential shift. He noted that this initiative could include the normalization of relations with Israel.

During his visit, Blinken met with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the Riyadh airport before engaging in discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the outcomes of these talks could have significant implications for the region’s geopolitical landscape.