An Assessment of Saudi Arabia’s Actions in The Israel-Palestine Conflict

Abstract

The Israel-Palestine conflict is an issue that holds significant importance for Saudi Arabia. Resolving the Palestinian issue has been a core component of Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy, formally established in 1943 as a benchmark of its diplomatic commitment and leadership in the Muslim world. State actions are shaped by interpretations, meanings, and national self-image in the international system. In this context, Saudi Arabia would be expected to consistently support Palestine to uphold its identity and leadership role as a regional power. However, in reality, Saudi Arabia has adopted a neutral stance that contrasts with traditional expectations. This research aims to assess the underlying reasons behind Saudi Arabia’s neutrality in the Israel-Palestine conflict. The analysis employs Neorealism, particularly John Mearsheimer’s theory, emphasizing the Balance of Power as the primary analytical framework, with alliances and the pursuit of increasing power as key concepts. The findings show that Saudi Arabia’s strategic rivalry with Iran is a significant factor influencing this shift. After the 1979 Iranian Revolution, Iran aggressively expanded its influence across the Middle East. In response, Saudi Arabia, seeking to counterbalance Iran’s growing power and secure its own position, recalibrated its foreign policy. Consequently, Saudi Arabia’s neutral stance as its strategic prioritization of containing Iranian dominance in the Middle East region.