Saudi Arabia maintains a neutral stance in the U.S. presidential election, engaging effectively with both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Political commentator Ali Shihabi highlights the importance of U.S. support in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and notes significant shifts among Arab-American voters, who may influence the election’s outcome despite their historical preferences.
In the context of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, Saudi Arabia currently maintains a neutral stance towards both candidates, Donald Trump from the Republican Party and Kamala Harris from the Democratic Party. Political commentator Ali Shihabi articulated that the Kingdom’s primary focus remains on leveraging its relationship with Washington to address significant regional issues, most notably the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He emphasized that the Kingdom enjoys excellent diplomatic relations with both parties, presenting a unique position lacking in previous electoral cycles where party preference heavily influenced foreign relations. Historically, the Kingdom has leaned towards Republicans; nevertheless, Shihabi noted a marked improvement in ties with Democrats in recent years, largely through the current administration’s recognition of Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance in the Middle East, particularly in the wake of the Ukraine-Russian conflict. Shihabi conveyed optimism regarding U.S. engagement under either administration, underscoring that a new Democratic administration would likely continue the policies of the Biden-Harris administration, while relations with Trump remain amicable. He asserted that regardless of the election outcome, Saudi Arabia will look to the U.S. for assistance in resolving long-standing issues, such as the Israeli-Palestinian dilemma. Recent initiatives by the Kingdom to promote a two-state solution exemplify this stance. Shihabi maintained that U.S. involvement is crucial for achieving substantial progress, observing that American pressure is vital to influence Israeli policy. Historical examples were cited where previous U.S. presidents made significant impacts on Israeli actions. However, he expressed skepticism about the current Israeli government’s willingness to concede without decisive intervention from the United States, reiterating that U.S. leadership holds the most leverage in this regard. The changing dynamics among Arab-American voters were also highlighted, with recent polls indicating a slight preference for Trump over Harris due to widespread discontent with the present administration’s approach towards Israel. Shihabi speculated that Arab-American voters are increasingly aware of their political influence, especially in key swing states where their votes could be significant. Ultimately, Shihabi foresees a competitive election where the outcome between Trump and Harris remains uncertain, cautioning that both candidates must navigate the complex diplomatic landscape involving Saudi Arabia and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The article examines the evolving diplomatic relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States amid the backdrop of the U.S. presidential election. Saudi Arabia is positioned uniquely, having built strong relationships with representatives from both major political parties in the United States. It highlights issues of regional stability and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict while analyzing how this election could impact future engagements with U.S. leadership. The discussion extends to the increased political awareness among Arab-American voters, whose perspectives may influence electoral outcomes.
In conclusion, the article underscores Saudi Arabia’s strategic neutrality amidst the U.S. presidential election and emphasizes the kingdom’s focus on its broader goals in the Middle East, particularly relating to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Shihabi’s insights reveal a complex landscape where U.S.-Saudi relations have potential for continuity under either presidential candidate. Furthermore, the shifting attitudes of Arab-American voters signal an emerging political force that could have tangible effects on electoral results, reflecting a growing engagement in matters of international significance.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
