Introduction: Concerns over

As he seeks to normalize relations with Israel,
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin
Salman has expressed deep concern for his own security,

Politico reported. MBS reportedly told US lawmakers
during negotiations that they would risk their lives
if the deal continued without significant
concessions for the Palestinians.

The key role of the Palestinian state

MBS has stressed the need for a possible
normalization deal to pave the way for a Palestinian state.
He cited the assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat,

who was killed by Islamic extremists after the peace
agreement with Israel in 1981, as the reason for the unrest.
“I will resign as administrator of the Islamic shrines

if I do not solve the most pressing justice problem
in the region,” MBS said. “The Saudis are deeply concerned about this
and the streets in the Middle East are deeply concerned about this,” he said.

The impact of the Gaza conflict on normalization negotiations

The recent escalation of the situation in Gaza has major
implications for normalization talks between Saudi Arabia and Israel.
On October 7, Hamas terrorists launched massive attacks in southern Israel,

killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage.
The violence has complicated the diplomatic situation and
made it difficult for the United States and Saudi Arabia to implement the agreement as planned.

Geopolitical dynamics

Shortly before the violence erupted,
two Israeli ministers made a remarkable visit to Saudi Arabia.
As the United States and Saudi Arabia navigate these complex geopolitical dynamics,
the future of the Standard Convention remains uncertain due to the crisis in the Middle East.

MBS’s next steps involve a strategic combination
of diplomatic maneuvers and PR efforts to advance
the normalization agenda. This includes continuing

to work with US officials to obtain the necessary
concessions and guarantees, and managing public
opinion to mitigate potential Middle East backlash.

In addition, MBS must balance Saudi Arabia’s security
and economic interests with the broader goals of regional stability and peace.