Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, announced the launch of the “International Coalition to Implement the Two-State Solution” during a high-level ministerial meeting on the Palestinian issue and peace efforts.
The event was held on Thursday, coinciding with the UN General Assembly’s annual high-level week in New York.
Speaking on behalf of Arab, Islamic, and European partners, Prince Faisal highlighted the humanitarian disaster resulting from the ongoing war in Gaza and condemned the grave violations committed by Israeli occupation forces in the West Bank.
He further emphasized the importance of safeguarding Al-Aqsa Mosque and other religious sanctuaries, underscoring the continued threat posed by Israeli occupation policies and violent extremism.
In his remarks, the Saudi foreign minister condemned the violence, saying: “The right to self-defense cannot justify the killing of tens of thousands of civilians, systematic destruction, forced displacement, the use of starvation as a weapon of war, dehumanization, and documented torture, including sexual violence.” He referenced reports from the United Nations that have cataloged these abuses.
Prince Faisal also expressed concern over escalating tensions in the broader region, particularly the situation in Lebanon, warning of the danger of a regional war that threatens not only the Middle East but global security.
“We are witnessing a dangerous escalation that is affecting our Lebanese brothers and could lead to a regional war that threatens our region and the world at large,” he said.
The Saudi foreign minister reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire, demanding an end to violations of international law. He stressed the need for accountability for those obstructing the peace process and creating instability in the region.
“We call for an immediate halt to the ongoing war and all violations of international law. It is imperative that those who hinder peace are held accountable and prevented from jeopardizing the security of the region and the world,” he added.
Prince Faisal questioned the integrity of the global system, stating: “What remains of the credibility of the international order when we stand powerless to stop the machinery of war, while some insist on selectively applying international law, in blatant disregard for basic principles of equality, freedom, and human rights?”
The centerpiece of Prince Faisal’s speech was the announcement of the International Coalition to Implement the Two-State Solution. He emphasized that the establishment of an independent Palestinian state is not merely a political outcome but a fundamental right and the cornerstone for lasting peace.
“The creation of an independent Palestinian state is a basic and inalienable right, not an outcome to be negotiated in a distant political process. We commend the countries that have recently recognized Palestine, and we urge all nations to show courage by making the same decision and joining the international consensus represented by 149 countries that have recognized Palestine,” said Prince Faisal.
The coalition, which will include Arab, Islamic, and European partners, aims to create a reliable and irreversible path to achieving a comprehensive and just peace. Prince Faisal extended an invitation to other nations to join the initiative and contribute to ending the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“We, the Arab and Islamic nations along with our European partners, announce today the launch of the ‘International Coalition to Implement the Two-State Solution.’ We invite you to join this initiative as we commit to making every effort to ensure a credible and irreversible process for a just and comprehensive peace,” he concluded.
