Israel’s opposition likely to back Netanyahu on Saudi peace deal
The opposition leaders in Israel have signaled their readiness to back a normalization agreement with Saudi Arabia if it aligns with the country’s national and security interests. This development comes amid Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s struggles with coalition partners who are hesitant to make substantial concessions to the Palestinians, which could potentially jeopardize the Saudi deal.
Despite several challenges, Israeli officials have been conducting visits to Saudi Arabia, indicating an informal process of normalizing relations between the two nations. Saudi Arabia’s inaugural envoy to the Palestinian Authority recently presented his credentials in the West Bank, reiterating support for the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Reports are circulating that Riyadh may be willing to accept Israel addressing some Palestinian demands as part of the normalization process. However, the issue of full statehood for the Palestinians remains a contentious matter within Israel’s coalition government.
The central matter now revolves around discussions involving the Biden administration, Netanyahu’s government, and Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz. The United States is exploring options to incorporate centrist forces into Netanyahu’s coalition, and Gantz could potentially be open to such a move.
The question of uranium enrichment on Saudi territory remains a significant point of contention, with some proposing innovative solutions to address regional concerns.
Ultimately, the support of Gantz’s party could prove critical for any agreement with Saudi Arabia to secure approval in the Knesset. While Netanyahu may manage to secure the deal’s passage, preserving his coalition could present a formidable challenge.
The stances of opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz regarding joining a Netanyahu-led government are pivotal, and their decisions could have historical significance concerning judicial reforms, the establishment of peace with Saudi Arabia, and the prospects for a two-state solution with the Palestinians.
