The Importance of Including Palestinians in a Saudi-Israel Deal

The United States is reportedly exploring a Middle East deal to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, with hopes of achieving a more integrated and peaceful region. However, the reported contours of the deal, including advanced arms sales, a security guarantee, and assistance for a civilian nuclear program, may not genuinely advance peace and could potentially worsen the situation. The deal may not yield significant benefits for the Palestinians, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shown little interest in making concessions. Additionally, the deal may not shift Saudi Arabia away from its growing relationship with China or its recent initiatives to ease tensions with Iran. The proposed deal risks deeper U.S. entanglements and security commitments, and it assumes a kind of Israeli partner that may no longer exist. The Biden administration should reconsider its plan for a normalization deal, as it may have blind spots when it comes to the changing dynamics of the Middle East.