Talks between Saudi Arabia and Israel are expected to continue in backchannels despite a shift in focus towards talks with Iran following the recent Hamas terrorist attack, according to Dr. Jonathan Schanzer, senior vice president for research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Schanzer revealed that the Saudi-Israeli relationship has been ongoing for months or even years under the table, emphasizing that normalization is a process and not an event. The attack by Hamas has resulted in the deaths of at least 3,200 people, including 1,300 Israeli civilians and soldiers, as well as 27 Americans. Palestinian health authorities have reported at least 2,215 Palestinian deaths and over 8,700 wounded. Some experts believe that the attack was a response to reports of potential normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel. However, sources familiar with the matter have stated that Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has already spoken with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to prevent further violence in the region. The call, which lasted 45 minutes and had the blessing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, aimed to support Palestine and prevent the spread of war. Saudi Arabia initially appeared to blame Israel for the conflict, but U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham criticized their statement and warned that it could harm their relationship with the United States. Geopolitical consulting firm Eurasia Group's president, Ian Bremmer, also believed that the deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel has become “unpalatable” due to the Saudi statement. However, Schanzer argued that the relationship between both countries and the United States will help maintain balance and work towards normalization. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been conducting talks with key regional players, urging an end to the conflict and the preservation of civilian lives. Schanzer emphasized that the real question is when discussions can continue, either during or after the crisis. He also highlighted the importance of Israel being careful with their actions in Gaza, as the Saudi public does not want to see bloodshed and destruction. Despite a potential shift in focus towards Iran, Schanzer believes that Saudi Arabia still has sympathy for the Palestinian people. The report also mentioned that normalizing ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel would hinder Iran's ambitions. The report concluded by mentioning that Saudi Arabia had previously agreed to a preliminary deal with Israel in August, which included concessions for Palestinians and U.S. assistance in building a civilian nuclear program and security guarantees. The Biden administration reportedly wants assurances from Saudi Arabia regarding their economic and military distance from China.