Saudi Recognition of Israel’s Conditional on Resolution of Palestinian Issue:
Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister stated that the kingdom could recognize Israel if a comprehensive agreement, including Palestinian statehood, is reached. Prince Faisal bin Farhan, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, emphasized the importance of peace for both Israel and the Palestinians. When asked if Saudi Arabia would recognise Israel as part of a broader political deal, he responded affirmatively.
US and SauduArabia Joint Efforts:
Prince Faisal highlighted on-going efforts with the U.S. administration, particularly in the context of Gaza, to work towards regional peace through the establishment of a Palestinian state. Prince Faisal said securing regional peace through the creation of a Palestinian state was something we have been indeed working on with the U.S. administration, and it is more relevant in the context of Gaza. Saudi Arabia – a Muslim powerhouse and the most influential country in the Arab world. Saudi Arabia holds significant religious influence globally as the home to Islam’s most sacred sites.
Diplomatic Status after Oct 7 Attacks:
After the outbreak of conflict between Israel and Hamas in October, Saudi Arabia swiftly reorganised its diplomatic priorities, temporarily halting U.S.-backed plans to normalise ties with Israel. Sources familiar with Riyadh’s thinking reported a delay in talks on Saudi-Israel normalisation, considered a crucial step for the kingdom to attain what it sees as the ultimate prize – a U.S. defence pact in exchange.
Palestinians Demand:
Signals from Israeli and Saudi leaders indicated a progressing move towards establishing diplomatic relations, potentially reshaping the Middle East. The Palestinians seek a state in territories captured by Israel in 1967, with East Jerusalem as their capital. U.S.-sponsored negotiations on this matter stalled over a decade ago. Hurdles include Israeli settlement of occupied land and conflicts between Western-backed Palestinian authorities and Hamas Islamist, who reject coexistence with Israel.
Prince Faisal expressed commitment to a better future through peace, emphasising the need for a ceasefire as a starting point toward permanent, sustainable peace, achievable only through justice for the Palestinian people.
Israel’s hard-right government downplays significant concessions to Palestinians in potential normalisation with Saudi Arabia.
Casualties Toll:
The Gaza war, initiated by Hamas militants on Oct. 7, resulted in 1,200 deaths and 240 hostages, while 130 still in captivity. Israel’s response to Hamas’ assault involved a siege, bombardment, and ground invasion in Gaza. This resulted in devastating consequences and a reported death toll of over 24,000, according to Palestinian health officials. The conflict has heightened concerns about broader regional instability. Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah has frequently clashed with Israel along the border. Pro-Iranian militias have targeted U.S. interests in Iraq. Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis, disrupting Red Sea shipping, vow to continue until Israel ends its Gaza bombardment.
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