Saudi Arabia Forms Global Coalition for Two-State Solution in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Saudi Arabia has established a global coalition to advocate for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Announced by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud at the UN General Assembly, the alliance includes several Arab, Muslim, and European countries. The initiative follows the escalation of violence resulting from the Gaza war, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman asserting the necessity of Palestinian statehood prior to recognizing Israel. This coalition aims to address longstanding regional tensions and promote coexistence.

Saudi Arabia has initiated a global coalition aimed at advocating for a two-state resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as announced by the country’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, on Thursday during the United Nations General Assembly gathering in New York. This coalition comprises several Arab and Muslim nations as well as various European partners, although specific countries involved have yet to be disclosed by the Saudi state news agency. Josep Borrell, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, indicated via X that initial discussions would take place in Riyadh and Brussels. In the wake of the Gaza war that erupted last October, in which hostilities intensified between Israel and the militant group Hamas, Saudi Arabia temporarily suspended plans, endorsed by the U.S., to normalize relations with Israel, according to sources familiar with the kingdom’s position. The foreign minister stated, “Implementing the two-state solution is the best solution to break the cycle of conflict and suffering, and enforce a new reality in which the entire region, including Israel, enjoys security and coexistence.” Moreover, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the kingdom’s stance last week, asserting that Saudi Arabia would not recognize Israel unless it acknowledges the existence of a Palestinian state. He condemned what he referred to as the “crimes of the Israeli occupation” against the Palestinian populace. Since the escalation of the conflict on October 7, which saw an incursion by Hamas militants into southern Israel resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals and the abduction of around 250 hostages, Israel has retaliated with military operations in Gaza, claiming over 41,500 Palestinian casualties, according to health authorities in Gaza. Additionally, Israel has signaled its intention to intensify military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon following nearly a year of cross-border skirmishes coinciding with the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a long-standing geopolitical issue marked by territorial disputes, political unrest, and cycles of violence. The two-state solution has often been proposed as a viable resolution, allowing for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. Recent escalations in violence, particularly following the resurgence of hostilities between Israel and Hamas, have prompted renewed efforts from various nations, including Saudi Arabia, to seek a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. Saudi Arabia’s role is particularly significant due to its influence in the Arab world and its previous overtures towards establishing relations with Israel, which have been complicated by the ongoing conflict.

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s formation of a global alliance to promote the two-state solution reflects a strategic diplomatic effort to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly in the wake of recent escalations in violence. With the involvement of Arab, Muslim, and European nations, the alliance seeks to reinvigorate discussions around coexistence and security for all parties involved. The stances taken by key figures such as Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the Palestinian cause as a prerequisite for recognizing Israel. This initiative could play a pivotal role in influencing future negotiations and fostering regional stability.

Original Source: www.jpost.com