Saudi Blogger Muhammad Saud's Mysterious Disappearance After Pro-Israel Stance

Saudi blogger Muhammad Saud became a viral sensation in Israel in 2019, particularly within the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, after visiting the country at the invitation of the Foreign Ministry. During a tour of Jerusalem's Old City, he was attacked by Palestinians, facing verbal abuse and projectiles, which paradoxically boosted his popularity in Israel. From 2020 to 2023, Saud solidified his presence in Israeli media, often seen singing Israeli religious songs and playing the oud, further endearing him to his followers.

Saud frequently posted "Shabbat Shalom" and "Chag Sameach" greetings in fluent Hebrew, demonstrating a remarkable understanding of Israeli politics. He became an outspoken supporter of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, engaging in widely publicized video calls with him and other Israeli politicians. His connection to Jewish tradition and Israelis positioned him as an unofficial goodwill ambassador.

However, in late 2023, just four days before the October 7th Hamas attacks, Saud abruptly vanished from social media, ceasing all daily updates on his previously active accounts. His disappearance sparked widespread speculation and concern among his Israeli followers.

At the time of his disappearance, Saud was scheduled for interviews with several foreign media outlets and was slated to appear on Channel 14's "HaPatriotim" program. He was also expected to meet with Israel's Minister of Communications, Shlomo Karhi, who was leading a delegation in Riyadh for an international conference. This delegation, authorized by Prime Minister Netanyahu, included Knesset members and officials representing Israel in Saudi Arabia.

The prevailing theories suggest Saudi authorities ordered Saud to cease his pro-Israel activities due to immense geopolitical tensions and widespread Arab anger. Some reports raised concerns about his arrest to prevent a media firestorm that could embarrass the Saudi royal family. To this day, his whereabouts and condition remain unknown, leaving him as a symbol of a brief, optimistic period of unlikely connections in the Middle East.