Saudi Delegation’s Al-Aqsa Mosque Visit Called Off: A Deeper Look
Watan – The Hebrew daily, “Haaretz,” reported an unexpected diplomatic pivot: the Saudi delegation canceled their scheduled visit to the revered Al-Aqsa Mosque. Timed to coincide with the commemoration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, Ambassador Naif bin Bandar Al-Sudairy was to lead the visit.
“Haaretz” suggests that last-minute opposition on social media platforms prompted the Saudi delegation to call off their visit. The main concern was that the ambassador might enter under the protection of Israeli security forces.
Anticipating potential confrontations at the Al-Aqsa precincts, Ambassador Naif bin Bandar Al-Sudairy decided to cancel the visit. This decision came shortly after he presented his credentials to the Palestinian Authority President, Mahmoud Abbas.
The Palestinian Authority has expressed positive views on the recent developments. They see the appointment of the first Saudi ambassador to Ramallah as a significant step. This move aims to deepen the relationship with Riyadh and boost mutual cooperation.
In the past, Saudi Arabia had a consulate in Jerusalem. But this changed in 1967 when Israel occupied the city. During this period, Jordan had control over the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
There’s a growing push for diplomatic ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been vocal about his desire to build a relationship with Israel. Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shared similar views. Despite this, U.S. diplomats remain cautious. They think a complete normalization between Riyadh and Tel Aviv isn’t imminent. Their reasons include ongoing talks about a defense agreement with Washington and Saudi Arabia’s plans for a civilian nuclear program.
Analysts believe that media-centric agendas drive such narratives, and Washington uses them to temper public dissent against moves seen as harmful to the Palestinian cause.
The Saudi official news channel, SPA, announced in August that Riyadh had appointed Al-Sudairy as the non-resident ambassador to Palestine and the consul general in occupied Jerusalem.
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