Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Outlook Amid U.S. Presidential Election Dynamics

Saudi Arabia’s political commentator Ali Shihabi discussed the Kingdom’s neutral relations with both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris in the U.S. presidential race, emphasizing its aim to leverage this relationship to address regional issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Shihabi highlighted the strengthening ties with Democrats and the importance of U.S. pressure for achieving lasting solutions. The evolving sentiments of Arab-American voters further indicate a significant political engagement that could impact U.S. policy in the Middle East as the election approaches.

In a recent discussion on Saudi Arabia’s stance in the context of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, political commentator Ali Shihabi articulated that the Kingdom maintains neutral relations with both candidates: Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris. He emphasized that regardless of who wins, Saudi Arabia is prepared to leverage its relationship with Washington to address critical regional challenges, notably the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Shihabi remarked, “I think the Kingdom is in a very advantageous position of having excellent ties with both parties.” Historically, Saudi Arabia may have favored Republican administrations; however, in recent years, its rapport with Democrats has significantly strengthened, particularly following the reassessment of the Biden administration regarding the Kingdom’s role following the onset of the Ukraine-Russian conflict. Shihabi suggested that the new Democratic administration would likely continue the policies established during the Biden-Harris term, while the ongoing friendship with Trump and his associates also indicates a conducive relationship. He stated, “Either option works out well for the Kingdom, which is quite a unique state of affairs really in situations like this.” Further emphasizing Saudi Arabia’s role in regional stability, he highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to pursuing the two-state solution, ensuring that U.S. involvement remains crucial to its success. Although the possibility of a historic U.S.-Saudi security pact and normalization with Israel appeared imminent, recent geopolitical shifts, particularly following the October 7 Hamas attack, have complicated these prospects. Shihabi acknowledged that while a formal agreement may be deferred, discussions have nonetheless strengthened security ties between the two nations. He observed, “I think the discussions with America on that file have brought the Kingdom and America very close in sort of a de-facto security arrangement that isn’t a de-jure one yet.” As the election progresses, Shihabi noted the evolving sentiment among Arab-American voters, who, based on a recent poll, seem to favor Trump over Harris by a marginal 2%. This shift suggests a broader discontent with the Biden administration’s handling of Israel, showcasing the Arab-American community’s growing political engagement. Shihabi extensively analyzed the implications of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the importance of American pressure in influencing Israeli policy, stating that the U.S. has been pivotal in seeking substantial concessions from Israel. In conclusion, as the election draws closer with race forecasts remaining tight, Shihabi succinctly noted, “It’s a coin toss as to which one of them will win. We’ll just have to wait.”

The article provides insights into the diplomatic dynamics between Saudi Arabia and the United States, particularly in relation to the U.S. presidential election involving candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The commentary illustrates Saudi Arabia’s strategic position, its evolution in relations with both political parties, and its concerted efforts to influence the resolution of longstanding issues in the Middle East, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Shihabi offers a compelling critique of the roles that American political leadership and strategies play in shaping regional politics and the future of U.S.-Saudi relations.

In summary, Saudi Arabia finds itself in a favorable position with regard to upcoming U.S. presidential elections, maintaining robust ties with both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The Kingdom aims to utilize its relationship with the United States to address critical regional challenges, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Despite recent geopolitical changes impacting the potential for a U.S.-Saudi security pact, discussions continue to foster stronger bilateral security collaboration. Furthermore, the shift in Arab-American voter sentiment underscores a growing political influence that could have implications for future U.S. policy in the region. With the electoral outcome too close to call, the Kingdom’s strategic importance in the Middle East remains relevant regardless of which candidate prevails.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com