In late 2023, hopes for a historic normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel were high, with both nations seeing strategic and economic benefits from closer ties. However, the surprise attack by Hamas on October 7 dramatically shifted the regional landscape, halting progress and intensifying public hostility within Saudi Arabia toward Israel. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, facing internal political risks and wary of popular sentiment, has since adopted a more cautious approach, prioritizing domestic stability and consolidating his power.

Despite ongoing quiet cooperation in security and technology, public normalization remains stalled. Saudi Arabia has recalibrated its regional alliances, warming to Turkey and considering new security partnerships, while the United States debates the terms of advanced arms sales and defense treaties. The future of Saudi-Israeli relations now hinges on internal Saudi politics, regional dynamics, and the conditions set by American policymakers, with normalization appearing farther away than ever.