Under President Trump, Saudi Arabia is emerging as a key diplomatic player, involved in negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict and developing an alternative plan for Gaza, which seeks to ensure Palestinian statehood while excluding Hamas from governance. The Kingdom’s dual strategies aim to assert its global influence and regional authority.
Under President Trump’s administration, Saudi Arabia is increasingly asserting itself as a pivotal diplomatic player on the global stage. The Kingdom is engaging in crucial negotiations related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the complexities surrounding Gaza, showcasing its ambitions and geopolitical interests. Recently, Saudi Arabia indicated its readiness to host a summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, while also working on a viable alternative to Trump’s contentious Gaza plan, which controversially excludes Palestinian residents.
Saudi Arabia’s active diplomatic efforts are designed to enhance its influence both regionally and globally. By facilitating negotiations for peace in Ukraine, Saudi Arabia aims to strengthen its ties with both the United States and Russia. Simultaneously, as it leads discussions regarding Gaza, the Kingdom is set to navigate the intricate dynamics of great power competition, while also addressing regional stability.
Recently, Saudi Arabia expressed its support for the phone conversation between Trump and Putin, signaling its intention to mediate in the Ukraine conflict. Trump indicated a possibility of meeting Putin in Saudi Arabia soon. The Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, has established unique relationships with both leaders, positioning himself as a key figure in the resolution efforts for the ongoing war in Ukraine.
In parallel, Saudi Arabia is leading initiatives to construct a counterproposal to Trump’s vision for Gaza, which involves relocating Palestinians to neighboring Jordan and Egypt. The Kingdom, along with Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE, is developing a framework focusing on Palestinian governance without Hamas, ensuring the prospect of statehood for Palestinians. A proposed Palestinian committee, aligned with Gulf funding for reconstruction, will oversee governance in Gaza.
Even before the recent escalation in Gaza violence following Hamas’s attack, Saudi Arabia was contemplating establishing relations with Israel, conditioned on the formation of a Palestinian state. As the situation develops, the Kingdom aims to present its Gaza initiative at an upcoming Arab summit to secure regional backing before bringing its proposals to Washington.
As Saudi Arabia positions itself as a critical venue for international discussions, its dual-track diplomatic strategy will continue. Ongoing initiatives on both Gaza and Ukraine signify the Kingdom’s commitment to become a major player in resolving significant geopolitical issues.
Amir Daftari reports for Newsweek, bringing attention to Saudi Arabia’s strategic diplomacy and alliances. His experience encompasses various global affairs, particularly in the Middle East, with insights drawn from his tenure at the United Nations.
Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a significant diplomatic force under President Trump’s administration, playing an essential role in negotiations concerning Ukraine and Gaza. Its efforts not only reflect a desire to enhance regional authority but also to balance complex global relations. The outcomes of these diplomatic maneuvers could redefine the geopolitical landscape, particularly concerning U.S. and Arab relationships.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
