Mustafa Barghouti, leader of the Palestinian National Initiative and a former presidential candidate, discusses the evolving dynamics between Saudi Arabia and Israel. He addresses how these shifts impact Palestinian rights and aspirations, emphasizing skepticism surrounding mere living condition improvements versus true statehood. Barghouti critiques the ongoing Israeli occupation and calls for a broader vision of justice and liberation for Palestinians, while highlighting the solidarity surrounding the Palestinian flag during the Qatar World Cup.
The normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel is viewed skeptically by Palestinians, who demand the prioritization of their statehood and rights.
Dr. Mustafa Barghouti asserts that any diplomatic engagement must focus on ending the Israeli occupation, rather than merely providing economic benefits.
Deep dives
The Shift in Saudi-Israeli Relations
Recent developments indicate a potential shift in relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, with official visits by Israeli officials to Saudi Arabia marking a historic moment. This diplomatic engagement is seen as a strong indicator of possible normalization, which the U.S. is actively supporting. However, skepticism remains among Palestinians and other regional actors, as they worry this normalization may occur without addressing core issues such as the Israeli occupation. For Palestinians, the normalization process must involve substantial changes regarding their rights and statehood, rather than mere economic benefits.
The Role of the Palestinian Leadership
Palestinian leaders express concerns that any normalization efforts between Israel and Arab states, including Saudi Arabia, must be contingent on ending Israeli occupation and establishing a Palestinian state. Dr. Mustafa Barghouti emphasizes the Arab Peace Initiative, which Hinges normalization on Israel's cessation of military actions and settlement expansions. Despite the engagement with Saudi officials, many Palestinians feel their needs and rights are secondary to geopolitical interests. Barghouti argues that improvements in their lives are meaningless without true freedom and recognition of their national rights.
Public Sentiment on Normalization
The sentiment among Palestinians regarding normalization with Israel is overwhelmingly negative, as they believe it undermines their struggle for independence. Many Palestinians see the normalization efforts as a distraction from the primary issue of occupation, with Israeli actions contradicting promises of peace. Additionally, Dr. Barghouti points out that any support from Saudi Arabia or other nations must not come at the cost of their national aspirations. Ultimately, actions addressing the systemic injustices faced by Palestinians are fundamental to any future peace, rather than superficial political gestures.
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on October 2, 2023. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed.
Leaders from both Saudi Arabia and Israel have been working toward normalizing relations. The Saudi Kingdom, which supports Palestinian statehood, says it hopes normalization would ease Palestinians' lives. But during an address at the United Nations General Assembly, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said peace can only prevail in the Middle East when Palestinians have full, legitimate, and national rights. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition has been adamant in making no concessions to the Palestinians. So, where do Palestinians fit as Arab-Israeli relationships change?
In this episode:
Mustafa Barghouti (@MustafaBarghoti), Secretary General of the Palestinian National Initiative
Episode credits:
This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker and Amy Walters. The original production team was Sarí el-Khalili, Sonia Bhagat, David Enders, and our host Malika Bilal.
Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Aya Elmileik. Adam Abou-Gad is our engagement producer.
Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer, and Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio.