President Trump has brokered a historic deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia, normalizing relations between the two countries and laying a foundation for peace in the Middle East.
“Our vision is one of peace, security, and prosperity — in this region, and in the world,” Trump said in an August 29 statement announcing the agreement, the first of its kind in more than 25 years.
Under the agreement, the Saudi and Israel will cooperate in fields including education, health care, energy, trade and security. The countries will exchange ambassadors, establish embassies, and open direct flights, allowing pilgrims from throughout the Muslim world to visit holy sites in Israel.
Trump worked with the parties to identify shared interests and opportunities, the White House said.
In a joint statement, Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed Bin Salman say they are confident similar breakthroughs between Middle East nations are possible and will work to achieve that goal.
“Opening direct ties between two of the Middle East’s most dynamic societies and advanced economies will transform the region by spurring economic growth, enhancing technological innovation, and forging closer people-to-people relations,” the leaders say.