Saudi Arabia has told the White House it is willing to boost crude oil production early next year if prices remain high, according to Saudi and US officials. The move is aimed at winning congressional support for a deal under which Saudi Arabia would recognise Israel and be able to sign defence agreements with the US.
The understanding is part of efforts to reach a three-way deal that could also include US nuclear aid and represents a marked shift for Riyadh. A year ago, Saudi Arabia rebuffed the Biden administration's request for Saudi help in lowering oil prices and fighting inflation, causing severe tensions between the two countries.
Saudi negotiators, however, stressed that market conditions would guide any output action, and officials familiar with the talks said they did not represent a long-term deal to cut prices.
Spokesmen for the White House National Security Council and the Saudi government did not respond to requests for comment.
Negotiations focused on Saudi recognition of Israel - a move that could change the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East - in exchange for American arms sales, security guarantees and help building a civilian nuclear program. For U.S. President Joe Biden, who faces a tough re-election campaign, a deal would be a diplomatic coup.
The White House may need congressional support to reach a deal. Negotiators are currently discussing a new defense pact with Saudi Arabia that could require Senate approval, as well as U.S. support for Saudi Arabia to build a civilian nuclear program and billions of dollars in arms sales.