An Israeli newspaper has reported that secret talks have taken place between Ehud Olmert and high-ranking Saudi officials (hat tip JSF).
The agenda included the Iranian nuclear programme, and the obligatory topic of peace with the Palestinians whenever anyone does meet the Israelis. Olmert all but confirmed the existence of the meetings:
"I am very impressed with different processes and statements that are
connected to Saudi Arabia, some that have been stated publicly and
others as well. I am very impressed with King Abdullah's wisdom and
sense of responsibility," Olmert said.
Asked if Israel was holding secret contacts with Saudi Arabia, Olmert replied: "I do not have to answer every question."
Reason for the talks? "The [Israeli] prime minister was impressed by the moderate, positive stands that
the Saudis expressed during the summer when Israel was fighting
Hezbollah," the Israeli official who leaked story told The AP.
Now, one can look at this charitably for the Saudis and say we can't trust Israeli reports. But the fact that they can be used in such a way says it all about their recent actions. The reason for their siding with the Israelis against Hizbullah, and now Iran, is simply due their concern at the rise of Shia influence.
The folly of their position is clear. Iraq aside, it is interesting to see that the Sunni-Shia divide is being put to one side in the fight against occupation in Palestine. The people of the Arab world see Hizbullah as heroes. If the Saudis want to be loved, being the subservient wife of Israel isn't going to do it. Iran has rose to prominence because of their willingness to stand up to US and Israeli hegemony.
The dividing lines in the Muslim world are not Sunni and Shia anymore. There are now the occupiers and their friends, and those that are resisting them.