Fostering Business Collaboration Between Saudi Arabia and Israel for Mutual Growth
Explore how the Saudi Israel Business Council is bridging gaps between nations, promoting partnerships, and driving innovative projects across sectors like technology, agriculture, and healthcare. Join us in creating a prosperous Middle East through networking, knowledge exchange, and cross-border collaboration for economic growth and shared success.
5/8/20241 min read
Fostering Business CollaborationThe relationship between Saudi Arabia and Israel has been a focal point in Middle Eastern geopolitics, characterized by a complex interplay of covert engagements, public diplomacy, and shifting alliances. Historically, the two nations have not maintained formal diplomatic relations, with Saudi Arabia traditionally supporting Palestinian sovereignty and adhering to the broader Arab League's stance on Israel
Historical Context
In 1947, Saudi Arabia voted against the United Nations Partition Plan for Palestine and has since not recognized Israeli sovereignty. Over the decades, the kingdom has maintained a policy of non-recognition and has been an active participant in the economic boycott of Israel.
Shifts Toward Engagement
In recent years, geopolitical dynamics have prompted a reevaluation of this stance. Shared concerns over Iran's regional influence have led to covert security collaborations and intelligence sharing between Saudi Arabia and Israel. These clandestine engagements have laid the groundwork for potential normalization.
The Abraham Accords and Saudi Arabia's Position
The signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020, which saw the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco normalize relations with Israel, marked a significant shift in Middle Eastern diplomacy. While Saudi Arabia did not immediately join these accords, it expressed support for the agreements, signaling a possible openness to future normalization.
Recent Developments
As of 2023, reports indicate that bilateral negotiations toward Israeli–Saudi normalization are ongoing, with the United States serving as a mediator. These discussions suggest a potential thawing of relations, although formal diplomatic ties have yet to be established.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite these positive signals, several challenges impede full normalization. Public opinion within Saudi Arabia remains largely opposed to formalizing relations with Israel without significant progress on the Palestinian issue. Additionally, regional dynamics, including Saudi Arabia's recent rapprochement with Iran, add layers of complexity to the kingdom's foreign policy decisions.