Title: Secret Talks Between Mossad Chief and White House Officials Indicate Potential Israel-Saudi Arabia Normalization Deal
Word Count: 356
In a series of covert discussions, Mossad Chief David Barnea recently visited the White House to hold secret talks about a potential normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia, according to insider sources. Barnea’s visit included meetings with top US officials, such as National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Brett McGurk, and Amos Hochstein. Following the discussions, Sullivan and McGurk traveled to Saudi Arabia, hinting at the significance of the negotiations.
During his visit, Barnea also managed to meet with CIA Director Bill Burns, underlining the importance given to these discussions.
Sources reveal that Saudi Arabia is looking to negotiate a defense and security pact with the United States, along with Israeli concessions to the Palestinians, and the establishment of a civilian nuclear program. Interestingly, Tzachi Hanegbi, Israel’s National Security Adviser, expressed that Israel’s approval would not be required for the civilian nuclear program. However, Hanegbi added that Israel would not compromise its security in any way.
Although talks between Israel and Saudi Arabia are still in the early stages, President Joe Biden hinted at potential progress, noting that a “rapprochement may be underway.” However, Biden has yet to finalize his position on the desirability of the proposed deal.
Washington recognizes the potential benefits of an Israel-Saudi Arabia normalization deal for US national security interests. In return for Israeli concessions, Riyadh seeks a mutual security treaty with the US, the establishment of a civilian nuclear program, and the ability to purchase advanced weaponry.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen, expressed that the nation is closer than ever to achieving a peace agreement with Saudi Arabia. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long campaigned for a normalization deal with Saudi Arabia, highlighting the strategic advantages it could bring.
These efforts by the Biden administration come at a time when Israeli-US relations have faced strain due to concerns over judicial reforms. Thus, a successful normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia could potentially serve as a significant diplomatic achievement for the United States.
Notably, relations between the US and Saudi Arabia warmed in 2022 when President Biden made visits to both countries, marking a turning point in their diplomatic interaction.
As talks progress behind closed doors, the world awaits further insights into the potential breakthrough that could reshape the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape.
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