US-Saudi Nuclear Talks Ignore Israel Normalisation
Nuclear Deal Takes Centre Stage
The US and Saudi Arabia have been negotiating a civilian nuclear agreement since November 2022, with dozens of exchanges between officials. Normalisation with Israel was not discussed. Officials familiar with the talks say Riyadh's diplomatic recognition of Israel was not on the agenda.
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The negotiations have been ongoing for months, with both sides working out the details of a potential nuclear deal. The talks have focused on the technical aspects of the agreement, with no mention of Israel. A current and a former US official confirmed that normalisation was not discussed.
The US is keen to secure a nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia, seen as a key player in the region. The deal would allow Saudi Arabia to develop its civilian nuclear programme. Officials say the negotiations are progressing, but a final agreement is still some way off.
Can Nuclear Deal Succeed Without Normalisation?
The lack of discussion on normalisation with Israel has raised eyebrows, given the US push for Saudi Arabia to recognise Israel. However, officials say the nuclear deal is being treated as a separate issue. The US is reportedly willing to offer Saudi Arabia significant incentives to secure the deal.
The success of the nuclear deal remains uncertain, with many hurdles still to be overcome. If the deal goes ahead, it could mark a significant shift in the region's nuclear landscape. However, the absence of normalisation with Israel may have implications for the deal's long-term viability.
The outcome of the negotiations will be closely watched, with regional and global implications. A nuclear-armed Saudi Arabia could alter the balance of power in the Middle East.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the US-Saudi nuclear talks? The talks are focused on a civilian nuclear agreement, with no discussion of normalisation with Israel.
Has normalisation with Israel been ruled out? Officials say normalisation was not discussed, but it has not been ruled out. The US is still pushing for Saudi Arabia to recognise Israel.
What are the implications of a US-Saudi nuclear deal? A nuclear-armed Saudi Arabia could alter the balance of power in the Middle East, with regional and global implications.
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