Last updated: 10 June, 2024
Saudi Arabia and U.S. Defense Pact: Strategic Collaborations and Future Prospects
The relationship between Saudi Arabia and the U.S. is defined by strategic collaboration, particularly in defense and economic spheres. Over time, this partnership has been strengthened by mutual concerns regarding regional security and energy stability. Within this framework, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS) is considering a defense pact with the U.S., decoupled from normalizing ties with Israel. This potential pact would enhance the defense ties between the two countries even further.
Amidst escalating Houthi military operations toward the Mediterranean Sea, Riyadh is grappling with strategic considerations and diplomatic engagements with the U.S. The Saudi Defense Minister, Prince Khaled Bin Salman, has emphasized the limits of self-restraint in response to these provocations. The outcome of a recent U.S.-GCC defense cooperation meeting underscores the importance of a robust strategic defense partnership.
As work continues on the defense pact, MBS has reiterated his commitment to two conditions before signing. The note highlights these conditions, the expected date for signing the pact, and the transformative results anticipated by MBS. This agreement aims to solidify defense ties while ensuring mutual benefits for both nations.
On May 19, 2024, MBS met with U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Dhahran to discuss a “semi-final” version of the security agreement. During this meeting, MBS considered a defense pact with the U.S. that is decoupled from normalizing ties with Israel. The discussion also touched on the advanced U.S. defense systems that Saudi Arabia is keen on acquiring.
In an earlier meeting on April 29, 2024, MBS discussed with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken the formulation of the defense pact. This comprehensive discussion covered military cooperation on artificial intelligence, the F-35 fighter jets, and the Saudi civilian nuclear program. However, a specific Saudi request was declined by the U.S., showcasing the complexities involved in these negotiations.
Following Blinken's meeting with MBS, divergent views emerged within the U.S. administration regarding the path to a strategic defense agreement with Saudi Arabia. Notably, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan expressed differing opinions on May 5, 2024, prompting further diplomatic engagements. This development highlights the intricate dynamics and priorities , including the defense pact, the normalization file, and Palestinian statehood.