The US and Saudi Arabia are finalizing a broad set of agreements, including a non-binding security guarantee and a weapons deal, ahead of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to the US, which aims to bolster strategic cooperation and possibly advance Middle East peace efforts.
White House national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) to discuss the war in Gaza and efforts towards creating sustainable peace between Israel and Palestine. They also discussed the humanitarian response in Gaza and increasing aid flow. Sullivan will travel to Israel next to hold talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of the war cabinet, addressing concerns over Israel's "indiscriminate bombing" of civilians. The visit aims to discuss a ceasefire resolution, Israel's attacks on civilians, and bringing aid to Gaza. The US has been urging Israel to avoid civilian casualties and be more precise with their strikes against Hamas targets.
The recent Houthi missile and drone attacks on Israel have raised concerns about the escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict and the potential impact on Yemen's civil war. While some argue that the attacks demonstrate the Houthis' alliance with Iran, others suggest that the primary motive is to gain domestic support and present themselves as a force challenging Israel. The attacks could also affect US thinking on the conflict, potentially bolstering arguments for a more confrontational stance against Iran. However, the Houthis' actions primarily serve their own interests rather than those of Iran. The attacks could complicate negotiations between the Houthis, Saudis, and the Saudi-led coalition, and if they escalate, it could put Saudi Arabia in a difficult position.