Democratic senators have communicated their stance to President Biden, stating that any potential diplomatic agreement between Saudi Arabia and Israel should include a commitment from Israel to cease settlements in Palestinian territories and uphold the possibility of a two-state solution. This demand may face resistance from hard-line members of Israel’s government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A letter signed by 20 senators also expressed concerns about a proposed U.S. defense treaty with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for substantial evidence to prove its alignment with U.S. interests, given Saudi Arabia’s controversial foreign policy and human rights record.
The senators highlighted the significance of meaningful concessions from Israel, including refraining from annexing any part of the West Bank and halting the construction and expansion of Israeli settlements. These actions, they argued, are vital for achieving President Biden’s goal of preserving the option of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, Netanyahu’s government has actively expanded Israeli settlements, making the prospects of a Palestinian state more remote.
President Biden has expressed support for Israel’s integration into the Middle East while reaffirming his commitment to a Palestinian state, emphasizing efforts toward a just and lasting peace between the Israelis and Palestinians.
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