https://english.almayadeen.net/news/politics/lapid-on-bidens-visit:-improvement-in-relations-with-saudi-a

Lapid on Biden's visit: Improvement in relations with Saudi Arabia

Israeli occupation Foreign Minister Yair Lapid touched on the expectations of US President Joe Biden's visit to the Middle East and the relationship between "Israel" and Saudi Arabia.

During a press conference, Lapid considered that Biden's visit to Saudi Arabia has a symbolic significance.

He said that "Everyone is looking at Saudi Arabia these days and the fact President Biden will fly directly from here to Saudi Arabia signals that there is a connection between the visit here and the visit there and the ability to improve ties" between "Tel Aviv" and Riyadh.

The Israeli Minister claimed that there will not be a breakthrough in Israeli relations with Saudi Arabia, but an improvement in relations will be witnessed, which will help in normalizing ties with more countries in the region.

Lapid told reporters that Saudi Arabia and Indonesia are two countries with which "Israel" is looking to strengthen relations, adding that he has a relationship with three foreign ministers from three countries that the Israeli occupation does not maintain diplomatic relations with.

He said that the US President will announce to the Israeli media the steps that will be taken, pointing out that "We are trying to put Iran under siege both security-wise and policy-wise."

The Israeli occupation Foreign Minister also revealed that his UAE and Moroccan counterparts are expected to visit "Israel" soon.

With regard to the Iranian nuclear file, Lapid mentioned that the Israeli occupation is pushing for a UN Security Council session on Iran and the imposition of all sanctions on Tehran.

“If there is no Iran deal soon, it has to happen,” he said.

Gil Tamari, the foreign affairs commentator of Israeli Channel 13 said that the essence of President Biden's visit is: Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabia, with small, symbolic steps to build confidence, adding that in the end, it paves the way for normalization between "Israel" and Saudi Arabia.

Tamari commented on FM Lapid's statements to journalists saying that despite the symbolic meaning of such a visit, he thinks that Biden's departure from "Ben Gurion Airport" to Saudi Arabia is not just mere symbolism.

It is noteworthy that Biden is expected to visit "Israel" on July 14-15 and Saudi Arabia on July 15-16. His visit to the latter will include a meeting with the Kingdom's de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman.