Saudi Minister Urges Focus on Palestinian Statehood

In a recent discussion, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan addressed the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the critical need for establishing a Palestinian state. Responding to inquiries about the Gulf countries' roles, he stressed that Saudi Arabia's position has been clear and unequivocal since the onset of violence. He highlighted the humanitarian catastrophe caused by Israel's military actions, labeling them as genocidal due to the extensive civilian casualties and the blockade against humanitarian aid. The kingdom's foreign policy is based on principled engagement rather than ambiguity, seeking paths towards a ceasefire with the support of international partners like the US, Qatar, and Egypt. Prince Faisal reiterated that normalization of relations with Israel is contingent upon a credible pathway to Palestinian statehood, emphasizing that regional security hinges on addressing Palestinian rights. While expressing hope for a ceasefire in Lebanon amidst ongoing negotiations, he noted the importance of avoiding escalation with Iran. Commenting on the Israeli Prime Minister's lack of focus on the Palestinians, he asserted that a serious dialogue addressing their rights is vital for lasting peace.