Saudi Arabia Seeks US Aid Amid Yemen War, Eyes Israel Alliance
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reportedly sought assistance from Washington regarding the ongoing conflict in Yemen, where Houthi forces are gaining ground on the western coast. However, the United States' primary focus is currently on Iran, diminishing the prospects of significant American support for Saudi Arabia.
The article criticizes the concept of an "Islamic NATO," suggesting it has failed to materialize due to competing national interests among member states like Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. Historical animosity and leadership rivalries between Saudi Arabia and Turkey, coupled with Pakistan's pro-Iranian sentiments and significant Shia population, hinder effective cooperation. Turkish President Erdogan's historical awareness of Yemen's resistance to Ottoman rule is also cited as a factor.
Given these challenges, Saudi Arabia may consider normalizing relations with Israel, as exemplified by the UAE's security cooperation, which includes hosting Israel's Iron Dome defense system and receiving training for its air defense forces against Iranian threats. The article questions the viability of military alliances with nations possessing divergent interests, highlighting the fundamental differences between Saudi Arabia's theocratic monarchy, Turkey's secular autocracy, and Pakistan's military oligarchy, despite their shared Muslim-majority status.
The author suggests the "Islamic NATO" may have been conceived as a commercial venture, with Turkey and Pakistan potentially receiving Saudi investment in their defense industries in exchange for technology transfer and localized production. The article contrasts this with Israel's advanced military technology, which is purchased by the US and Germany, and its potential role as a reliable ally offering advanced weaponry and security cooperation, including intelligence support from Mossad.
The piece concludes by noting that despite anti-Israel rhetoric, Israel's military capabilities are substantial, and it is prepared for a robust military alliance. Such an alliance could involve deploying Israeli weaponry on Saudi territory for defense against Iran and facilitating local arms production, similar to arrangements with Morocco. Additionally, Mossad's capabilities in neutralizing internal enemies and the influence of the American Jewish lobby are presented as further benefits of aligning with Israel.
