Washington, D.C. – January 22, 2025 – President Donald Trump expressed strong confidence on Monday that Saudi Arabia will soon join the Abraham Accords, signaling a major diplomatic breakthrough in Middle East peace efforts. Speaking from the Oval Office while signing executive orders on his inauguration day, Trump stated, “I think Saudi Arabia will end up being in the Abraham Accords… soon. Not a very long way.”
Trump’s remarks come on the heels of the recently brokered Gaza ceasefire agreement, which he believes has created fresh momentum for expanding the accords. Prior to his inauguration, Trump had already outlined his vision to leverage the ceasefire deal to push forward regional peace efforts and build upon the landmark agreements that normalized Israel’s relations with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco during his first term.
Trump always said, “We will continue promoting PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH throughout the region, as we build upon the momentum of this ceasefire to further expand the Historic Abraham Accords. I have no doubt Saudi Arabia will join us soon.”
Saudi Arabia Showing Signs of Normalization
The current Saudi leadership, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), has expressed a desire for new economic prospects and strategic partnerships.
Recent developments indicate that Saudi Arabia is showing increased openness to joining the accords, with Trump highlighting signs of a softened stance from Riyadh. In recent statements, Saudi officials have toned down their rhetoric and have signaled a willingness to engage in discussions on broader regional cooperation.
While Saudi Arabia had previously insisted on the establishment of a Palestinian state as a precondition for normalization, sources close to Trump’s team suggest that the Kingdom is now more receptive to a phased approach to diplomatic ties with Israel. A senior Trump aide revealed that backchannel talks have resumed, with Saudi leadership demonstrating “constructive engagement” in exploring potential agreements.
Expanding the Abraham Accords
The Abraham Accords, first signed in 2020 under Trump’s leadership, established formal diplomatic relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco. Saudi Arabia, considered a key player in the region, has been seen as the most significant potential addition to the accords, which could reshape Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Trump’s team remains optimistic that his leadership and the changing regional dynamics will encourage Saudi Arabia to join. “The Kingdom sees the benefits of normalization and the economic and security opportunities it brings,” an official close to the negotiations stated.
Factors Influencing Saudi Arabia’s Decision
Several factors will influence Saudi Arabia’s decision to join the Abraham Accords:
- International Affairs: The changing landscape of international relations, particularly in regards to U.S. foreign policy, repercussions from neighboring countries, and pressures from different factions within Saudi Arabia could significantly shape this decision.
- Domestic Policies: The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative seeks to diversify its economy and enhance international relations. Joining the accords could align well with these ambitious goals.
- Public Perception: The response of the Saudi populace and their historical view of Israel will impact the government’s decision. Any significant diplomatic move must consider local sentiments to maintain stability.
Why Saudi Arabia Joining Is Significant
- Regional Stability:
- Saudi Arabia’s inclusion in the Abraham Accords would symbolize a broader acceptance of Israel in the Arab world, paving the way for lasting peace in a historically contentious region.
- This normalization could foster collaboration in combating extremism and addressing issues like terrorism that jeopardize the stability of the entire region.
- Economic Opportunities:
- Increased trade between Israel and Saudi Arabia could unlock economic prosperity for both nations.
- Collaborations in technology, energy, and agriculture could lead to innovative solutions benefiting the citizens of both countries.
- Geopolitical Strategy:
- Saudi Arabia holds significant influence in the Arab world. Its alignment with Israel could alter the dynamics of power in the region and counteract Iranian influence, which has been a major concern for both nations.
Regional Implications and Next Steps
Upon taking office, Trump has made it clear that expanding the Abraham Accords will be a key foreign policy priority. Experts suggest that Saudi Arabia’s potential inclusion in the agreements could pave the way for other reluctant nations to join, strengthening the accords as a foundation for long-term peace in the Middle East.
The Gaza ceasefire, which Trump has credited as a turning point, may serve as a launching pad for broader regional cooperation. Observers note that the ceasefire agreement and shifting political tides in the Middle East provide an opportunity for deeper engagement and long-term peace-building efforts.
The eventual normalization of ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel could herald a new chapter of collaboration and peace in the Middle East, promising immense cultural, political, and economic benefits. The world will watch closely as these nations navigate their paths toward potentially historic relations.