Israel Times: The White House Seeks to Normalize Relations Between Israel and Saudi Arabia Before the U.S. Elections

The Israel Times reported on Tuesday, September 6, that the White House insists on achieving the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia before the U.S. presidential elections in November. John Kirby, spokesperson for the National Security Council, stated in an interview with the Israel Times: "President Joe Biden firmly believes that the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia is not only possible but can certainly be achieved before the end of his presidency." Kirby also noted the ongoing regional issues, adding: "We know that a lot needs to be done to achieve the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia; that is why we are working to establish a ceasefire in Gaza first so that we can make progress on peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia." The Israel Times further writes that despite Kirby's remarks, two American lawmakers stated in July that the window for the U.S. to secure a normalization agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia before the presidential elections has closed. According to them, "there is not enough time left in the congressional calendar for the necessary hearings to approve the bilateral security pact that the U.S. and Saudi Arabia are seeking in parallel with the agreement with Israel." Last week, an Israeli diplomat at the Democratic National Convention emphasized that a normalization agreement would not be possible before November, but the window for talks could still remain open. Israel's agreement to create a pathway towards a Palestinian state has been a condition set by Riyadh for normalizing relations with Tel Aviv, a framework that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly rejected. Alim Saleh: The current conditions help Saudi Arabia gain more concessions from the U.S. and Israel. Reuters: The Biden administration lifted the ban on the sale of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia. The U.S.: Normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia requires calm in Gaza and negotiations for Palestinian governance. A Reuters report on the benefits, risks, and obstacles of the U.S.-Saudi nuclear agreement coincided with Jake Sullivan's visit. Blinken: The U.S.-Saudi security agreement for normalizing relations with Israel is in its final stages.