Hermine Hovhannisyan
vol. IX(2)
Pages 4-29
Abstract: Over the past two decades, there has been a noticeable shift
in the relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. Although they are
attempting to keep their relationship secret, there is substantial evidence
of their cooperation and behind-the-scenes diplomacy. How can
formerly hostile countries get closer? According to the balance of power
theory, states can forge alliances against one potential stronger power.
In this case, both countries have shared concerns in the region, Turkey
and Iran particularly. Hence, their newly emerged cooperation is meant
to neutralize common threats, and the theory of the balance of power
could explain Saudi Arabia’s and Israel’s recent rapprochement.
Keywords: balance of power, Saudi Arabia, Israel, rapprochement,
Iran, Turkey.
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