Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
04 September 2023 | 11:40am SAST
2-min read

The discussion centred on the efforts towards Saudi-Israeli normalisation, the major fallout after the revelation of the secret Israeli-Libyan meeting, and the increase in the murder rate of Palestinians living in Israel during this week’s Palestine Report with Moulana Ibrahim Moosa.

The interview revealed a series of high-level visits by U.S. officials to Saudi Arabia, with the goal of facilitating normalisation between Saudi Arabia and Israel. An upcoming delegation of top American officials is slated to visit Riyadh this week to discuss this potential normalisation. Concurrently, the secretary-general of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) will be in Riyadh to engage in discussions, primarily with the U.S., to assert its interests in the evolving scenario.

However, it was emphasised that these normalisation deals predominantly involve Israel, the United States, and other relevant parties, with the well-being of the Palestinians often seen as secondary to the broader geopolitical objectives. Saudi Arabia has been seeking NATO-like support and recognition of its civilian nuclear program from the United States and Israel. In return, the U.S. is pushing for Riyadh to distance itself from China and Russia.

The potential normalisation agreement could have far-reaching implications for the region. Critics argue that any deal may be perceived as a betrayal by Saudi Arabia, a significant player in the Muslim world. Saudi Arabia’s offer of increased aid to the Palestinian Authority comes with conditions that could suppress Palestinian resistance in the West Bank, adding to concerns.

Moulana Moosa noted that the suggestion of Saudi Arabia assuming custodianship of Masjid al-Aqsa raises questions, particularly concerning Jordan’s role in the holy site. Additionally, the right-wing Israeli government’s stance on these conditions could pose challenges to the agreement.

The interview also touched upon the recent revelation of a secret meeting between the Israeli foreign minister and the Libyan foreign minister in Rome. This meeting, which violated laws prohibiting normalisation between Libya and Israel, ignited protests in Libya. Demonstrators took to the streets, expressing their anger and solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

The incident led to the removal of Israeli posts about the meeting and the subsequent dismissal of the Libyan foreign minister. It further strained relations between the United States and Israel, as the secrecy surrounding the meeting complicated diplomatic efforts.

Lastly, the interview delved into the alarming rise in murders among Palestinians living in Israel. Gang-related violence within the Israeli state has claimed the lives of 160 Palestinians this year. Despite Israel’s capacity to apprehend Palestinians for minor offenses, major criminal gangs seem to operate with impunity, leading to suspicions of collaboration with Israeli authorities.

Critics argue that these gangs may receive weapons from Israeli sources to foment chaos within Palestinian communities.

Listen to the Palestine Report on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaiman Ravat.