Blinken Blocks Israeli Peace With Saudi Over ‘Backyard Fire’

Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a cautionary statement, highlighting the potential hindrance of ongoing unrest in the West Bank on the prospect of normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

In recent developments, Israel has advanced its plans to construct numerous additional settlement residences in the West Bank, a move that U.S. officials perceive as conflicting with the aspirations for a two-state solution.

Speaking at a gathering organized by the Council on Foreign Relations, Blinken conveyed the following message: “We have conveyed to our allies and friends in Israel that if a fire rages in their immediate surroundings, it will be exceedingly difficult, if not unfeasible, to both strengthen the existing agreements and extend them to potentially encompass Saudi Arabia.”

Blinken acknowledged that he has raised this issue during meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, and addressed the practical implications associated with it.

“Moreover, from our perspective as Israel’s closest friend and ally, we firmly believe that such an outcome is not in Israel’s best interest. This is due to the heightened level of challenges it poses to pursuing and expanding normalization agreements, as well as the tangible consequences involved,” Blinken explained.

He further questioned the implications if Israel were to bear responsibility, whether intentionally or unintentionally, for governing the West Bank, which is home to over 3 million Palestinians and over 500,000 settlers. Blinken emphasized the impact on resource allocation, including security resources, which are crucial for addressing concerns regarding Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran.

“In essence, the equation does not add up,” he concluded.

{Matzav.com}