Saudi Arabia pushes for US defense pact as 2024 presidential election looms

Saudi Arabia’s top leaders are reportedly looking to secure a formal US defense pact before the 2024 presidential election. Aiding Saudi Arabia’s interest in this pact is the growing instability in the Middle East, notably with increased hostilities from Iran and ongoing turmoil in Afghanistan, Syria and Yemen.

Primarily, Saudi Arabia seeks guarantees of protection from the US in the event of aggression from any other regional powers. A conclusion of a defense pact would mean US commitment to aid in defending Saudi Arabia, thus solid