Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, commonly known as MBS, has raised alarms regarding a potential assassination threat against him, a concern he shared with members of the U.S. Congress. This warning comes amid his ongoing efforts to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, a move that he believes is crucial for the future of his country.
In discussions described by sources familiar with the conversations, MBS highlighted the risks he faces as he navigates this complex diplomatic landscape. He referenced the assassination of former Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, who was killed after signing a peace treaty with Israel, to underscore the gravity of his situation. MBS emphasized that the Saudi populace is deeply invested in the Palestinian cause, stating, “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”.
Despite the threats, MBS remains committed to pursuing a grand bargain that includes U.S. security guarantees and economic investments in exchange for Saudi-Israeli diplomatic ties. However, the Israeli government has shown reluctance to incorporate a viable path to Palestinian statehood in any agreement, which complicates the negotiations further.
The Crown Prince’s concerns about his safety are particularly poignant given the historical context of leaders who have been targeted for pursuing peace initiatives. The situation remains fluid, with MBS’s ambitions for normalization facing significant hurdles, including the prevailing tensions in the region and the need for a solid commitment to Palestinian rights as a condition for any diplomatic progress .
