POLITICS
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Voices Assassination Fears Amid Saudi-Israeli Normalization Efforts
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has expressed grave concerns about the possibility of being assassinated due to his ongoing efforts to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. According to a report by Politico magazine, the Crown Prince conveyed these fears during a discussion with U.S. Congress members, highlighting the increased risks to his life as he navigates the complex and contentious process of establishing ties with Israel.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman drew a parallel to the assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, who was killed following the Camp David Accords with Israel, emphasizing the personal danger he faces in pursuing similar diplomatic efforts. He underscored that any potential agreement with Israel must include a clear and genuine path to establishing a Palestinian state, particularly in light of the growing anger among Arab nations over the issue.
The Crown Prince’s remarks also align with Saudi Arabia’s consistent stance that normalization with Israel is contingent upon resolving the Palestinian issue. Earlier this year, in February, Saudi Arabia informed the United States that it would not establish diplomatic relations with Israel until a Palestinian state was established within the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. This position was reiterated by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, who stated in January that Saudi recognition of Israel would only be possible if the Palestinian issue was resolved.
As Saudi Arabia continues to navigate its diplomatic relations in the Middle East, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s concerns about his safety reflect the high stakes and potential dangers involved in these historic efforts. The international community will be closely watching as these developments unfold, particularly in regard to their impact on the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict.