Part 5/8:
The political climate stands at a complicated crossroads. The incoming Trump administration's potential support for Israel's annexation of the West Bank appears at odds with the Palestinian pursuit of statehood. During his first term, Trump successfully facilitated the Abraham Accords, normalizing relations between Israel and four Arab nations. Yet, Saudi Arabia has been forthright in distancing itself from any prospects of engaging further with Israel, especially if it were to formally absorb the West Bank.
Former U.S. envoy Dennis Ross asserts that Saudi Arabia will not seriously consider normalization if Israel annexes the region, emphasizing the precarious nature of diplomacy in the region.