Summary:

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman fears for his life amid negotiations to normalize ties with Israel.
The Crown Prince expressed concerns about being assassinated for pursuing peace talks.
He drew parallels with Egyptian leader Anwar Sadat’s assassination and discussed the risks and potential fallout from the deal.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is reportedly concerned for his life as he negotiates a potential peace deal with Israel, according to Politico. The Crown Prince, who is leading efforts to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, has expressed fears about being targeted for assassination, similar to the fate of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, who was killed following his peace agreement with Israel. During discussions with US lawmakers, bin Salman voiced his worries about the dangers associated with the grand bargain, which also involves significant commitments from the US, including security guarantees and economic support.

The Saudi royal has mentioned that he might lose support within his own country due to the deal, reflecting the deep-seated concerns in the Arab world about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and its impact on public sentiment. He has emphasized that addressing the issue of justice in Palestine is crucial for maintaining his position and security as the custodian of Islam’s holy sites.

The negotiations, which have been kept largely confidential, are seen as a high-risk endeavor with the potential for significant political and social repercussions. The potential deal could include various US commitments, such as aid for a civilian nuclear program and increased economic investment. The Crown Prince’s fears underscore the complex and volatile nature of Middle Eastern diplomacy amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.