Senior expert on normalization with Saudi Arabia: "It needs Israel"

Prof. Uzi Rabi, a senior Middle East expert, said in an interview with 103FM that Saudi Arabia needs Israel for intelligence and military purposes against the Houthis, but full normalization will not occur in the near future. According to him, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman understands the limitations of other allies' power, and Israel is an essential partner. Rabi recommends not jumping to conclusions.

In an interview with the "Mishal and Davidov" program on 103FM, Prof. Uzi Rabi, a senior Middle East expert, addressed the relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis in Yemen. Rabi argued that Saudi Arabia, under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, needs Israel in the intelligence and operational spheres: "Saudi Arabia has heavy hammers but doesn't know where the Houthi nails are in Yemen." According to him, Israel can provide penetrating intelligence and experience in strikes in Yemen, and cooperation between the countries is tightening. However, Rabi clarified that full normalization will not occur in the foreseeable future, but negotiations are expected. He recommended "not jumping one way or the other." Additionally, Rabi addressed the situation in Iran, arguing that the Islamic Republic is changing and is no longer what it was, but it is impossible to know when a significant change will occur.