Saudi Arabia needs allies against the Houthis, but will it turn to Israel? - analysis
The flydubai attack may not bring Israel and Saudi Arabia closer, but it forces Riyadh to ask: Should it keep one of its strongest potential regional partners at arm’s length?
Saudi Arabia seeks allies against Iran's Houthis, but turns to Israel? - analysis
In the realm of US foreign policy, President Donald Trump operates on a transactional basis. Mutual benefits are sought, and when given, expectations align accordingly. Israel, a valued ally, has furnished the US with significant resources such as intelligence and military prowess. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth lauded Israel's bravery and capabilities.
However, America's traditional allies, including NATO nations and South Korea, have not risen to the same level of support. Consequently, they have faced harsh criticism. President Trump initiated scaled-back joint military exercises with South Korea, citing Seoul's unwillingness to assist in Iran's campaign, and threatened trade sanctions with Spain for denying US use of its bases for strikes on Iran.
The Saudi Arabian confrontation with the Houthis has recently intensified, with three attacks in a week, including a deadly strike on King Khalid Airport in Riyadh. Despite providing intelligence and targeting assistance, the US has halted direct military intervention. President Trump's reservations stem from concerns ranging from election timing to depleted weapons stocks.
One possible explanation for Trump's reluctance is his frustration with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's refusal to join the Abraham Accords. Saudi Arabia's aversion to normalization with Israel has hindered diplomatic progress. The US and Saudi Arabia recently signed a nuclear cooperation deal, but normalization remained a prerequisite for US President Trump's approval of the agreement.
Saudi Arabia's steadfast refusal to join the Abraham Accords, despite Iran's threats, has revealed differing strategic priorities. While Saudi Arabia and Israel share concerns over Iran and the Houthis, their political obstacles have impeded a more open relationship. The Saudi Arabian defense pact with Turkey and Pakistan demonstrates a shift towards alternative security arrangements.
A notable instance of cooperation was the allowance of a distressed Israeli plane to land in Tabuk. However, Saudi Arabia denied its request for aircraft to collect the passengers, emphasizing the boundary between practical cooperation and public acceptance. This incident highlights the complex balance between maintaining discreet assistance and avoiding normalization.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
