Crown Prince in Danger Amid Controversial Diplomatic Moves

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is confronting the risk of assassination over his efforts to normalize relations with Israel.

At a Glance

MBS fears assassination if he normalizes relations with Israel without Palestinian concessions.
MBS emphasizes the necessity of a clear path to Palestinian statehood in any normalization deal.
He references the assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat as a reason for his anxiety.
The recent escalation in Gaza has significantly impacted the normalization talks between Saudi Arabia and Israel.
MBS is determined to move forward with the deal, seeing it as essential for Saudi Arabia’s future.

Assassination Concerns Stemming from Saudi-Israel Diplomacy

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has expressed fears of potential assassination linked to his efforts to normalize relations with Israel. This notable disclosure was made to American officials amidst increasingly tense diplomatic negotiations. MBS has voiced that pursuing this diplomatic path without significant concessions for Palestinians poses a serious threat to his life, echoing historical precedents such as the assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat.

MBS strongly underlines the importance of ensuring a path to Palestinian statehood within the framework of any normalization deal with Israel. This stance reflects a deep-rooted sentiment across the Middle East, re-emphasized by the recent violent escalations in Gaza. The intense regional animosities and the heritage of conflicts pose substantial risks for any leader endeavoring to make significant peace strides.

Report | The US-based news website Politico raised speculation that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was at risk of assassination over his push for a normalization deal with Israel.@tovahlazaroff ✍️https://t.co/syZjTTqhCJ

— The Jerusalem Post (@Jerusalem_Post) August 14, 2024

Historical Alarm: Referencing Sadat

MBS’s fears are not without precedent. He has cited the assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, a leader who was killed following his peace agreement with Israel, to highlight the dangers involved. Such historical events underscore the volatile terrain of Middle Eastern diplomacy, where visionary leadership often interlaces with life-threatening perils.

“On at least one occasion, he has invoked Anwar Sadat, the Egyptian leader slain after striking a peace deal with Israel, asking what the US did to protect Sadat,” reports Politico.

The Crown Prince has framed the assassination threat as part of a broader diplomatic tactic. He appears to be leveraging the danger to push for a comprehensive deal that includes a clear roadmap towards Palestinian statehood. This strategic approach highlights the complexity and gravity of his diplomatic mission, balancing national interests, personal security, and regional stability.

🇸🇦SAUDI CROWN PRINCE TELLS U.S. HIS LIFE IS AT RISK IN PUSH FOR PEACE DEAL WITH ISRAEL

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has raised concerns about his personal safety with U.S. lawmakers, citing potential assassination risks as he pursues a historic peace deal with… pic.twitter.com/4UfOeOgvbc

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 14, 2024

Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts Amidst Regional Turmoil

The recent Hamas-led terrorist attack on southern Israel on October 7 has complicated the already tense landscape. The conflict’s escalation has significantly impacted the normalization talks. Nevertheless, MBS remains steadfast, viewing the deal as crucial for Saudi Arabia’s future. He argues for the inclusion of a framework that recognizes Palestinian statehood, despite opposition from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

“Saudis care very deeply about this, and the street throughout the Middle East cares deeply about this, and my tenure as the keeper of the holy sites of Islam will not be secure if I don’t address what is the most pressing issue of justice in our region,” says bin Salman according to Politico.

While the path forward is fraught with challenges, the Crown Prince’s determination underscores the importance he places on securing a comprehensive and historic agreement. His diplomatic maneuvers and public relations efforts will play a crucial role in advancing this agenda. Balancing Saudi Arabia’s security and economic interests with broader regional stability and peace goals remains his ultimate challenge as he navigates these perilous waters.