What's happened
The US and Saudi Arabia are close to finalizing a historic agreement that would provide security guarantees to Saudi Arabia and potentially lead to diplomatic ties with Israel, contingent on Israel ending the conflict in Gaza. The deal aims to reshape the Middle East and counter growing Chinese influence in the region.
Why it matters
The potential pact between the US and Saudi Arabia, tied to Israel's actions in Gaza, could have significant implications for regional stability and US foreign policy. It may also impact the balance of power in the Middle East, particularly in relation to Iran and China.
What the papers say
According to Bloomberg, the proposed deal between the US and Saudi Arabia would exclude Israel for now, focusing on security guarantees and technology sharing. The Japan Times highlights the challenges facing the agreement, including uncertainties surrounding the Gaza conflict. Business Insider UK notes that the deal aims to counter Chinese influence and provide Saudi Arabia with a defense against Iran.
How we got here
The agreement between the US and Saudi Arabia is part of a broader effort to reshape the Middle East, with a previous framework derailed by conflict in Gaza. The deal would offer security guarantees to Saudi Arabia and potentially pave the way for diplomatic ties with Israel, contingent on resolving the Gaza conflict.
Common question
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Saudi Arabia, officially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a country in Western Asia constituting the bulk of the Arabian Peninsula.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The Middle East is a transcontinental region that generally includes Western Asia, all of Egypt, Iran, and Turkey. Soviet Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Pakistan are generally excluded.
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