Saudi Arabia has firmly denied reports that its officials attended a meeting in Abu Dhabi between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, dismissing speculation of behind‑the‑scenes talks.
Speaking to AFP, a Saudi official stressed: “No official meetings. No talks. Nothing whatsoever. Our stance on Israel remains unchanged.”
Israeli media had claimed that Saudi representatives joined an expanded session following Netanyahu’s talks with the Emirati leader, with discussions allegedly focused on regional security cooperation, Iran, Yemen’s Houthis, and defence systems. However, Riyadh’s denial underscores its consistent position on Israel, despite growing speculation about potential shifts in Middle East diplomacy.
The reports had sparked debate about whether Saudi Arabia might be edging closer to formal engagement with Israel, especially after the Abraham Accords reshaped regional alliances. But the kingdom’s categorical rejection signals that, for now, its policy remains unchanged, even as regional tensions continue to evolve.
