Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan, asserted on Saturday that the establishment of an independent Palestinian state is a “prerequisite” for diplomatic relations with Israel, as reported by Saudi Arabia’s El-Ihbariyye channel.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Bin Farhan outlined Saudi Arabia’s position on the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian issue.
He emphasized that a commitment from the United States and Israel to a two-state solution is the only secure way to address the regional problem. Bin Farhan expressed concerns about Israel’s actions in Gaza, stating that they provoke the emotions of Arabs and Muslims, and warned that such actions would have repercussions for Israel in various aspects.
Addressing the issue of diplomatic relations with Israel, Bin Farhan clarified that Saudi Arabia currently has no relationship with Israel. He highlighted the country’s priorities, focusing on resolving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and establishing an independent Palestinian state before considering normalization with Israel. Bin Farhan stressed that any normalization must align with the Arab Peace Plan, which calls for recognizing an independent Palestinian state with its capital in East Jerusalem within the 1967 borders. Saudi Arabia has consistently maintained that normalization with Israel depends on the fulfillment of these conditions and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.