Democrats favor Israel-Saudi deal under Biden, not Trump

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Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog expressed optimism about securing a comprehensive agreement involving Israel-Saudi Arabia normalization and a U.S.-Saudi defense treaty during the current presidential transition period. The timing, he suggests, is strategic due to potentially stronger Democratic support in the Senate under President Biden’s administration.

During an appearance on Fox News Channel’s “Special Report,” Herzog discussed the ongoing diplomatic efforts, emphasizing that opportunities for such an agreement remain viable. He noted that Saudi Arabia has specific political requirements that need addressing.

#VIDEO | Michael Herzog, embajador israelí en EE.UU:

🗣️ "Esperamos que Hamás llegue a la conclusión de que el tiempo no está de su lado y acepte finalmente hacer un trato con los rehenes" pic.twitter.com/okNfPzDfjb

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— VOZ (@VozMediaUSA) November 27, 2024

“The window for such a deal is still open. The Saudis have some requirements, things that they need politically. And I’m hopeful that this could be done. The reason people are talking about this transition period is that there are better opportunities to pass it in the Senate. So, the window is open and we are hopeful,” Herzog stated.

When host Bret Baier sought clarification about Democratic senators being more likely to support a Biden-negotiated deal versus one under a potential Trump administration, Herzog confirmed this assessment. He elaborated on the package’s components, explaining, “We are talking about a package deal, which includes a defense treaty between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia and a normalization deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel, and that requires a majority of 67 senators.”

Today, I addressed hundreds of thousands at a rally in downtown Washington DC. It was an unprecedented show of support for Israel, a clear call for the immediate release of the hostages and a powerful coming-together to combat antisemitism.

There are defining moments in… pic.twitter.com/VdcLdJkhe9

— Ambassador Michael Herzog (@AmbHerzog) November 14, 2023

When pressed about the likelihood of success, Herzog maintained a cautious stance, estimating the chances at “50/50.”