Controversial US-Saudi Defence Pact Ignites Debate Over Israel and Palestinian Demands

Saudi Arabia is determined to secure a military pact with the United States that would require the US to defend the kingdom in exchange for opening ties with Israel, even if Israel does not offer major concessions to the Palestinians. The pact, which may resemble treaties the US has with Asian states or the US agreement with Bahrain, would reshape the Middle East by bringing together two longtime foes and binding Riyadh to Washington. The Palestinians' demand for statehood would take a back seat in the negotiations, and while some Israeli restrictions may be eased, it is unlikely to address the core issues of Palestinian statehood. The approval of the pact by the US Congress remains a challenge due to concerns over Saudi Arabia's military intervention in Yemen and other issues.