Blinken Initiates Middle East Tour With Saudi Meeting, Pushes Israel Normalization
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Monday, marking the beginning of a significant Middle East tour with the aim of fostering a Saudi normalization agreement with Israel. The State Department highlighted their discussion on “building a more integrated region,” hinting at efforts towards an Israel-Saudi normalization deal.
Blinken’s visit, his fifth to the region, focuses on diplomatic solutions to end the Gaza conflict and addresses humanitarian needs. Despite Saudi Arabia’s interest in normalization, it insists on Israel’s commitment to a Palestinian state—a stance that challenges Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s position. The talks also touched on regional cooperation for lasting peace in Gaza, aiming to secure both Israeli and Palestinian security.
Blinken’s tour will also include stops in Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and the West Bank, advancing talks for a truce in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages. Amidst cautious optimism, the diplomatic journey seeks breakthroughs in normalization efforts and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
