Call Me Back - with Dan Senor
The Saudi Deal and the Reoccupation of Gaza – with Lahav Harkov
May 9, 2025
Lahav Harkov, Senior Political Correspondent for Jewish Insider, dives into the intricate web of U.S.-Saudi-Israeli relations amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. He discusses shifting foreign policy dynamics, the implications of potential U.S.-Saudi defense agreements, and the Israeli stance on Palestinian statehood. The conversation highlights Israel's military strategy in Gaza, humanitarian challenges, and the societal impact of military engagement in Israel, revealing the emotional and political complexities facing families and communities.
44:23
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel is becoming increasingly complicated due to domestic unrest and shifting geopolitical dynamics.
- The precarious hostage situation in Gaza highlights the potential for significant military escalation by Israel as societal tensions in Israel grow over extended military obligations.
Deep dives
Shifting Dynamics of U.S.-Saudi-Israel Relations
The normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel has become increasingly complex following recent geopolitical developments. The Saudis now view normalization as less beneficial due to heightened risks from their own population, which is currently inflamed against Israel. President Trump's focus on economic deals, particularly a potential defense pact with Saudi Arabia, complicates the situation further, as many in Congress, like Senator Graham, emphasize that any defense agreement should include normalization with Israel. This shifting dynamic suggests that the U.S. is reevaluating its conditions for Saudi Arabia's nuclear program while Saudi Arabia seeks to balance its regional influence and domestic concerns.
