CNN reported, citing a Saudi source, that Saudi Arabia will not normalize relations with Israel unless there is what the source described as a “clear and irreversible path” toward establishing a Palestinian state.
The reported Saudi position came after US President Donald Trump stated that countries in the Middle East would be expected to recognize Israel once a broader agreement with Iran is reached.
According to the source cited by CNN, Saudi Arabia continues to maintain its longstanding position that normalization must be linked to credible progress toward Palestinian statehood.
Trump had earlier written on social media that he expected Middle Eastern countries and others to join the Abraham Accords after a deal ending the conflict with Iran is finalized.
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He also warned that if negotiations fail, military action could follow on a scale “bigger and more powerful than ever before.”
The report noted that Trump had previously asked Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a meeting last November to join the Abraham Accords.
According to the account cited by CNN, Mohammed bin Salman responded that Saudi Arabia wants to be part of the accords but insists on a clearly defined path toward a two-state solution.
The crown prince reportedly described his discussions with Trump on the issue as “constructive” and said Riyadh would work toward creating the conditions necessary to achieve that objective.
READ: Trump links Iran negotiations to expansion of Abraham Accords
