Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday, marking another significant step in the recent thawing of relations between Israel and the Kingdom. His visit comes as both nations continue to explore avenues for diplomatic normalization and cooperation.
The purpose of Minister Karhi’s visit is to attend a meeting of the Universal Postal Union, a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to fostering international collaboration in the postal sector. This gathering signifies the willingness of both Israel and Saudi Arabia to engage in diplomatic activities and collaborate on global issues.
This diplomatic breakthrough follows closely on the heels of Israeli Tourism Minister Haim Katz’s historic visit to Saudi Arabia just last week. Minister Katz’s visit marked the first official trip to the Kingdom by an Israeli minister. He participated in a United Nations tourism conference, underscoring the mutual interest in global cooperation.
During Minister Karhi’s visit, he is expected to deliver a speech at the conference and engage in meetings with various officials, including the United States Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Turkey’s Communications Minister. A statement from his office confirmed that Minister Karhi is leading a 14-member delegation, which includes lawmaker David Bitan and representatives from the Israeli foreign ministry.
While Saudi Arabia has traditionally not recognized Israel, insisting on a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and justice for Palestinian refugees, recent developments indicate a shifting landscape. The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden has been pushing for a groundbreaking deal that could reshape the Middle East.
Riyadh is reportedly seeking security guarantees from Washington and assistance with a civilian nuclear program that would include uranium enrichment capacity. These negotiations could potentially redefine the geopolitical dynamics in the region.
The Palestinian issue remains a critical factor in these diplomatic discussions, with Palestinian officials emphasizing the need for their inclusion in any potential deal. The exact concessions Israel may be willing to make are still uncertain, but recent statements from the White House indicate progress.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated, “All sides have hammered out, I think, a basic framework for what we might be able to drive at,” suggesting that both Saudi Arabia and Israel are moving closer to the outline of a historic agreement.
Minister Karhi’s visit underscores the growing momentum toward normalization and cooperation in the Middle East, marking a hopeful turn of events for regional stability and diplomacy.
As Israel and Saudi Arabia engage in dialogue and diplomacy on the global stage, the world watches with great interest, hoping for positive outcomes and a more peaceful Middle East.
