Saudi Arabia’s New Approach to Israel and the Normalization Process
Summary
Despite Trump administration efforts, Saudi Arabia remains uncommitted to formal normalization with Israel. MBS refused to announce formal ties during Nov 2025 US visit despite F-35 deals. 99% of Saudi respondents view normalization negatively. Kazakhstan joined Abraham Accords in early 2026.
Key Data Points
- Saudi Arabia refused formal normalization despite F-35 and investment deals
- MBS: “no diplomatic relations with Israel without independent Palestinian state”
- 99% of Saudi respondents opposed normalization (Aug 2025 survey)
- Kazakhstan joined Abraham Accords in early 2026 (first Central Asian nation)
- Trump sought to expand Accords to Syria, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia (July 2025)
- Netanyahu expanded Accords by recognizing Somaliland (Dec 2025)
- ADL expressed “grave concern” over antisemitic discourse in Saudi Arabia (Jan 2026)
Bias Assessment
INSS is an Israeli think tank. Analysis reflects Israeli strategic perspective. Data on Saudi public opinion sourced from independent polling.