Saudi Arabia has emerged as a powerful force in the shifting Middle East landscape, leveraging strategic diplomacy to gain an advantage. Over the past three months, Saudi Arabia has executed a series of calculated moves, akin to a chess grandmaster, effectively countering Israel. This strategic maneuvering has isolated Israel internationally, while simultaneously solidifying Saudi Arabia’s position as the most secure nation in the Gulf region through a deal with Pakistan.
Saudi Arabia, with its extensive landmass and borders with multiple countries, has been keen to secure its borders. The country’s alliance with the United States has provided a security umbrella, but the recent events have raised questions about the efficacy of US involvement. In response, Saudi Arabia quickly forged a defense agreement with Pakistan.
The defense deal with Pakistan stipulates that an attack on either nation is considered an attack on both. Given Pakistan’s status as a nuclear power, any conflict could escalate to a nuclear level. Saudi Arabia has effectively secured its borders by leveraging Pakistan. In return, Saudi Arabia will invest in Pakistan’s railway, healthcare, and energy sectors. This deal has fortified Saudi Arabia’s position as the most secure country in the Gulf. Experts believe this deal has also thwarted the ambitions of a ‘Greater Israel.’
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has initiated a campaign advocating for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The kingdom believes that lasting peace in the Middle East is unattainable without recognizing Palestine as a separate state. This initiative has garnered support from countries like France, the UK, Canada, Portugal, and Australia. Israel currently only has the support of the United States. The diplomatic setbacks that the UK and France have inflicted on Israel are considered a strategic defeat for the latter.
If Palestine becomes a separate state, Israel’s future position is likely to be unstable, as Palestine would have its own army and the right to possess weapons. Saudi Arabia has also engaged with Iran, holding discussions on security matters. Despite the historical animosity and proxy conflicts, Saudi Arabia has recognized the need to engage with Iran to achieve its strategic goals. This multifaceted approach highlights Saudi Arabia’s proactive role in reshaping the dynamics of the Middle East.