Blinken's Saudi Arabia Visit: Human Rights and Israel Normalization in Focus

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting Saudi Arabia to improve the strained relationship between the two countries. Blinken is expected to meet with top Saudi officials, including Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and discuss issues such as Iran, regional security, and oil prices. The visit aims to regain influence with Riyadh over oil prices, fend off Chinese and Russian influence in the region, and nurture hopes for an eventual normalization of Saudi-Israeli ties. The US is also expected to address human rights concerns in Saudi Arabia, including the detention of US citizens and residents.