The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed the kingdom's firm stance on the Palestinian issue, emphasizing the necessity for the Palestinian people to obtain their legitimate rights. In a statement released today, Wednesday, the ministry mentioned that the ongoing discussions between the kingdom and the United States regarding the Arab-Israeli peace process reflect this position, especially in light of comments made by U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby.
The ministry stated that the kingdom has conveyed its unwavering position to the U.S. administration: there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognized along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, and unless Israeli aggression on Gaza is ceased, alongside the withdrawal of all Israeli occupation forces from Gaza.
Additionally, the ministry reiterated its call for the international community—especially the permanent members of the Security Council who have yet to recognize the Palestinian state—to expedite the recognition of the Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, so that the Palestinian people can attain their legitimate rights, leading to comprehensive and just peace for all.
Kirby noted on Tuesday that President Joe Biden's administration had received positive signals regarding Saudi Arabia and Israel's willingness to discuss normalizing relations. Since the outbreak of the war in Gaza on October 7, Riyadh has repeatedly affirmed its support for the Palestinian cause and the two-state solution, highlighting the importance of preserving the rights of the Palestinian people. Additionally, it has condemned the violations and crimes committed by Israel in Gaza multiple times, especially as civilian casualties continue to rise in the besieged territory.
