❗️Israel and Saudi Arabia poised to begin direct normalization talks – The Cradle

 ❗️Israel and Saudi Arabia poised to begin direct normalization talks

Israel Hayom reports that Israel and Saudi Arabia are preparing to launch direct negotiations to establish normalization, with mediation and support from the US. The outlet said Washington has been coordinating an official announcement to coincide with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Washington in about two weeks. The talks reportedly involve President Donald Trump’s adviser Jared Kushner, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, Saudi Ambassador to Washington Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, and close aides to the crown prince.

According to Israel Hayom, the discussions are reviving a process that stalled during the genocide, when Riyadh allegedly hardened its conditions over Israel’s war crimes in Gaza. A senior American official told the outlet that a breakthrough is expected soon, with the strategic interests of Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the US now aligned. The main sticking point remains Saudi Arabia’s demand for a nuclear facility with independent uranium enrichment capabilities, though a compromise involving a US-built and managed plant is under consideration.

Israel Hayom adds that bin Salman’s upcoming visit will also focus on a new defense pact with Washington and potential approval for Saudi Arabia to purchase F-35 fighter jets, a deal previously limited to Israel in the region. While full diplomatic normalization is seen as unlikely under Israel’s current government, sources say initial economic and trade agreements could soon be reached.

READ FULL ARTICLE: This article originally appeared on The Cradle

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