Saudi Arabia’s Neutral Stance in the U.S. Presidential Race: Navigating Middle Eastern Diplomacy

Saudi political commentator Ali Shihabi asserts that Saudi Arabia enjoys strong relations with both U.S. presidential candidates, positioning the Kingdom to effectively address regional issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Shihabi emphasizes the importance of U.S. intervention for any meaningful progress in peace negotiations and notes that recent events have complicated prospects for Saudi-Israeli normalization. Furthermore, he highlights the emerging political influence of Arab-American voters, particularly in light of their shifting support between Trump and Harris, which could impact the upcoming election’s outcome.

In the context of the ongoing U.S. presidential race, Saudi political commentator Ali Shihabi has articulated that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia maintains a neutral stance regarding the candidates for the upcoming election, whether they are Republican Donald Trump or Democrat Kamala Harris. Shihabi emphasizes that Saudi Arabia’s primary objective is to leverage its relationship with Washington to address crucial issues in the region, particularly the enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He notes that, historically, the Kingdom may have exhibited a preference for the Republican Party; however, recent years have seen a notable improvement in relations with the Democratic Party. Despite a rocky start during President Biden’s campaign, where he referred to Saudi Arabia as a pariah, the strategic significance of the Kingdom has since underscored its role as a stabilizing force in the Middle East, particularly following the Ukraine-Russian conflict. Shihabi asserts, “Now, really, the relationship is as good as it could be at a deep institutional level,” indicating a robust engagement with both the potential Biden-Harris administration and a Trump-led government. When discussing U.S.-Saudi relations, Shihabi reiterates the Kingdom’s expectation for American involvement in the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as evidenced by Saudi efforts toward a two-state solution backed by global coalitions initiated in September. He underscores America’s unique leverage over Israel, arguing that U.S. pressure is vital for meaningful progress in negotiations. The political landscape has shifted considerably following the recent attacks on Israel by Hamas, which Shihabi claims have derailed prospects of a historic U.S.-Saudi security pact and normalization with Israel in the immediate future. Nevertheless, he recognizes the enhancement of security ties between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia through ongoing discussions, which may not yet be officially recognized but are nonetheless significant. Looking towards the future, Shihabi remains optimistic that irrespective of the electoral outcome, discussions regarding normalization with Israel will be revisited, with both candidates showing an interest in peace negotiations. He cautions, however, that the new administration’s approach toward Israel will prove crucial for any progress in the Middle Eastern peace process, stressing the need for a decisive stance. As Arab-American voters reflect a discernible shift in their electoral preferences, favoring Trump over Harris, Shihabi attributes this to a perceived inadequacy in Biden’s administration in handling the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This sentiment, coupled with Trump’s reputation as a dealmaker, potentially positions him favorably amongst this demographic, which is emerging as a politically significant group in pivotal states. Overall, Shihabi believes the evolving dynamics of U.S.-Saudi relations and the ongoing conflicts in the region may profoundly influence the outcomes of the election, as American policy towards Israel holds the key to potential peace negotiations. Both parties’ varying approaches to these pressing issues will shape the political landscape in the Middle East and have lasting implications for U.S.-Saudi relations moving forward.

The commentary by Ali Shihabi arises amid the 2024 U.S. presidential election cycle, during which Saudi Arabia seeks to navigate its foreign policy objectives amidst shifting American political dynamics. With both major parties evolving in their relationship with the Kingdom, Shihabi explores the implications this may have on regional stability and specific issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Kingdom’s improved relations with Democrats post-Biden campaign and Trump’s ongoing influence reflect a unique position that Saudi Arabia holds with both political factions, especially in light of global geopolitical developments such as the ongoing war in Ukraine. As Saudi Arabia continues to strive for resolution regarding Palestine, the role of the U.S., regardless of the administration, remains pivotal in facilitating any productive engagement. Considering the recent violent escalations in Gaza also adds another layer of complexity to the discussions regarding normalization with Israel.

In conclusion, Ali Shihabi’s insights into the current U.S. presidential race suggest a favorable position for Saudi Arabia, regardless of who wins the election. The Kingdom’s strategic relevance in the region has enabled it to cultivate strong ties with both Republican and Democratic leaders, placing it in a unique position to influence discussions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. With the recent escalation of tensions in Gaza, the necessity for a more robust U.S. policy towards Israel is increasingly apparent. Furthermore, the shifting preferences of Arab-American voters may hold significant implications for the upcoming election, reflecting a growing political engagement within this community. Therefore, the anticipated outcomes of the U.S. election hold substantial consequences for Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic efforts and the broader Middle Eastern peace process.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com