Saudi Arabia’s top diplomat, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, has unequivocally stated that the Kingdom will not consider normalizing relations with Israel or supporting Gaza’s reconstruction without a clear and credible path to a Palestinian state.
These remarks, made in a recent CNN interview, mark a clear and direct position from Saudi officials on the matter.
Speaking in an interview with CNN, when asked by the host, “Are you saying unequivocally that if there is not a credible and irreversible path to a Palestinian state, there will not be normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel?”
“That’s the only way we’re going to get a benefit,” Prince Faisal replied. “So, yes.”
Further, responding to Saudi Arabia’s potential role in financing Gaza’s reconstruction, Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of finding a sustainable solution. He expressed reluctance to return to the situation before October 7, as it could pave the way for further cycles of violence.
It is pertinent to note that, the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the deadliest of its kind, has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. Thousands of Palestinians have been killed or wounded, and a large portion of Gaza’s population has been displaced. The delivery of humanitarian aid remains challenging due to ongoing fighting and Israeli restrictions.
