The Saudi Foreign Minister discusses developments in Gaza and the West Bank with Hussein al-Sheikh
As part of the ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to support the Palestinian cause and calm the situation in the region, His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, received in the capital, Riyadh, today, His Excellency Hussein Al-Sheikh, Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization and Vice President of the State of Palestine.
These talks come at a highly sensitive time for the region, and the meeting included a comprehensive review of the evolving situation on the ground in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Both sides focused particularly on the catastrophic humanitarian conditions faced by the residents of the Gaza Strip, as well as the ongoing Israeli escalation in West Bank cities and villages, and the accompanying repeated violations of the ceasefire and international law.
Economic and political support
The meeting included in-depth discussions on ways to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people, with emphasis placed on the urgent need for the immediate and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid. Both sides also addressed the economic situation, stressing the importance of releasing the Palestinian Authority's withheld funds and the necessity of protecting the Palestinian banking system to ensure the continuation of economic activity.
In the political context, the two sides discussed the commitment to implementing President Donald Trump’s comprehensive peace plan, while expressing Saudi Arabia’s full support for the reform program launched by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, which aims to strengthen Palestinian institutions and unify the national ranks.
Prospects for a sustainable political solution
The meeting addressed the strategic importance of linking the Gaza Strip and the West Bank as a single geographical unit for the envisioned Palestinian state. The efforts of the US President in this regard were commended, and the importance of continued joint coordination with Arab partners and international allies was emphasized to ensure the Palestinian people achieve their legitimate rights.
His Highness the Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated the Kingdom’s firm and supportive position on the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, stressing that a just and comprehensive peace is the strategic option for the region.
The reception was attended by His Highness Prince Musab bin Mohammed Al Farhan, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, and Minister Plenipotentiary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Manal bint Hassan Radwan, reflecting the high level of interest in this vital file.
