New York, NY, September 26, 2023 – This statement is attributable to Jack Rosen, President of the American Jewish Congress, on recent developments in the U.S.-brokered normalization talks between Saudi Arabia and Israel:
“The world may see a landmark normalization agreement between Saudi Arabia and Israel soon, but now is the moment to mark something equally important and worth recognizing: the determination shown by three leaders to change the course of history in an intractable conflict, in a dangerous region. What Crown Prince Mohammed and Prime Minister Netanyahu are trying to achieve comes at great cost. The difficult choices and trades they must make are profound. And for President Biden to pull off high stakes diplomacy at a time of turbulence in Washington, D.C. – while juggling responsibilities on Ukraine, Iran, and China – is a tribute to his stamina, experience, and leadership acquired over years in the grind of politics.
The innovative diplomacy that has swirled between Washington, Riyadh, and Jerusalem – and extended recently into the G-20 Summit – is a moment to savor in international diplomacy. The Arab-Israel question is not amenable to easy solutions. And both sides carry a baggage of history, religion, and politics. Israeli leaders deal with an opinionated citizenry on the front lines of conflict in a tiny state that survived through grit, hard work, and faith. Saudi leaders carry dual responsibilities for their national interest and their role as the custodians of holy sites. What the Prince and the Prime Minister are trying to achieve has far-reaching implications for two great states, two great religions, and the public opinion across a vast region.
President Biden deftly handled two important relationships fraught with challenges in recent months with both Israel and Saudi Arabia. This is an act that required measured understanding of American interests and a skillful navigation through the pitfalls of Washington politics. Joe Biden placed our great nation’s interests in the Middle East above personal and partisan politics back home. That is a commendable feat.
The courage shown by Israeli and Saudi leaders will change lives for the better for everyone in the region. President Biden shines through this effort as a leader who has what it takes to get the job done.”
