A senior US official issued a stark warning to Israel, signaling a potential shift in US foreign policy in the Middle East.
According to reports, the official stated that if Israel does not adjust its current stance, the United States is prepared to move forward with a significant diplomatic agreement with Saudi Arabia, sidelining Israel in the process.
This development, described as a “Deal of the Millennium” by some, underscores growing US frustration with Israel’s approach to regional diplomacy, particularly regarding hostage negotiations and broader strategic alignment.
The proposed US-Saudi deal is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to stabilize the Middle East and counter Iranian influence.
The agreement is seen as a framework for fostering stronger ties between the US and Saudi Arabia, potentially including security guarantees, economic cooperation, and a ceasefire agreement with the Houthis in Yemen as a precursor.
The deal aims to realign the region’s geopolitical dynamics, prioritizing US-Saudi strategic partnership.
Israel, traditionally a key US ally, has been expected to play a role in this regional framework.
However, the US official expressed concerns over Israel’s current policies, particularly its insistence on sustained military pressure in Gaza to secure the release of hostages.
This approach, the official argued, may endanger the hostages’ lives—a view that aligns with the concerns of hostages’ families but contrasts with the Israeli government’s position
The tone of the US official’s remarks has raised eyebrows, as it marks a departure from the unconditional support Israel has historically enjoyed from its ally.
The official’s criticism focused on Israel’s handling of hostage negotiations, suggesting that its military strategy is counterproductive.
Reports indicate that President Trump is growing increasingly frustrated with Israel’s reluctance to adapt its approach, particularly in light of the broader regional goals the US is pursuing.
Posts on X reflect a mix of sentiments, with some users noting the significance of this shift.
One user remarked that the US is urging Israel to “come to its senses” and pursue a ceasefire in Gaza to facilitate broader diplomatic progress.
Others expressed skepticism about the feasibility of such deals, questioning whether groups like Hamas would relinquish their leverage without significant concessions.
Implications of a US-Saudi Deal Without Israel
If the US proceeds with the Saudi deal without Israel’s involvement, the diplomatic landscape of the Middle East could undergo a profound transformation.
Israel risks being marginalized at a critical juncture, potentially losing influence in shaping regional security and economic agreements. The deal could also embolden Saudi Arabia’s role as a central player in the region, further diminishing Israel’s strategic leverage.
Analysts suggest that this move reflects a pragmatic approach by the Trump administration, which is determined to prioritize US interests and regional stability over traditional alliances.
The ceasefire with the Houthis, already in motion, is seen as a stepping stone toward the larger US-Saudi agreement. For Israel, the message is clear: adapt to the changing realities or risk being left behind.
Israel faces a complex dilemma. On one hand, its government believes that maintaining military pressure is essential to securing the release of hostages and weakening groups like Hamas.
On the other, this approach is increasingly at odds with the priorities of its most powerful ally. The US official’s warning suggests that Israel’s current strategy may not only jeopardize the hostages but also isolate it diplomatically.
Public sentiment, as seen in some X posts, highlights the tension.
One user questioned why Israel feels responsible for providing services like electricity and water to Gaza, arguing that its policies are fueling US frustration.
Others see the US’s pivot as a pragmatic response to Israel’s intransigence, with one post describing it as an “interesting twist” in the Israel-Palestine conflict.