Middle Eastern politics is witnessing a new shift in equations and alliances. Global attention is focused on a major development taking shape between the United States and oil-rich Saudi Arabia. The US has struck a deal with the Gulf nation, which has irked its long-time ally, Israel. The ‘mega deal’ has become a major talking point, with Benjamin Netanyahu calling it one that could change global equations.
The multibillion-dollar deal, which was struck, not only strengthens their economic partnership but also will alter the balance of power in the Middle East. It reportedly includes nuclear cooperation, technology transfer, and a deal for F-35 fighter jets. The three words — oil, power, and trust — are resonating between the two nations, with analysts predicting a major shift in global politics. However, Israel appears uneasy about this changing dynamic.
MBS’ Oil to Technology Shift
The secret Quincy Pact of 1945 between U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Saudi King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud marked the beginning of the historic oil partnership between the two nations. Decades later, the U.S.-Saudi relationship- once rooted in energy and security- has evolved dramatically amid the geopolitical shifts of 2025. Now, it encompasses nuclear ambitions, technological collaboration, and major investments, driven largely by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s (MBS) vision to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy beyond oil.
What the US want from Saudi Arabia?
Through the deal, what the US wanted is to distance Saudi Arabia from the influence of China and Russia. Saudi Arabia wants advanced weapons and military guarantees from the US, just as Israel has received for decades. In the last years of World War II, the U.S. realised how important energy was for its future and how valuable the Middle East’s location was. After oil was found in Saudi Arabia, the U.S. started treating the country as a key part of its foreign policy.
The other highlight – F-35
If the U.S. agrees to this deal, Israel is worried. It fears that if Saudi Arabia gets powerful fighter jets like the F-35, it will break the military balance that has existed for many years in the Middle East. Israel thinks its safety depends on being stronger than others in air and cyber power. It is now afraid that the U.S. is giving less importance to Israel than before.
