Saudi Arabia Forms Global Alliance to Advocate for Israeli-Palestinian Two-State Solution

By Clauda Tanios

DUBAI – Saudi Arabia has established a global alliance aimed at advocating for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, according to the country’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. This announcement was made on Thursday during discussions at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The alliance comprises several Arab and Muslim nations along with European partners, although specific countries that have committed to joining the initiative were not disclosed by the Saudi state news agency.

European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell mentioned that the first meetings for this alliance would take place in Riyadh and Brussels.

Following the outbreak of the Gaza war last October, which involved hostilities between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas, Saudi Arabia halted U.S.-backed plans for normalizing relations with Israel, according to sources familiar with the situation.

"Implementing the two-state solution is the best way to end the cycle of conflict and suffering, and to create a new reality where security and coexistence can thrive in the region, including Israel," bin Farhan stated.

Additionally, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized last week that the kingdom would not recognize Israel without the establishment of a Palestinian state, condemning what he termed the "crimes of the Israeli occupation" against the Palestinian people.

The ongoing conflict has escalated significantly since October 7, when militants from Gaza launched an attack into southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the abduction of around 250 hostages, according to Israeli sources. In retaliation, Israel has conducted military operations in Gaza, which have reportedly resulted in over 41,500 Palestinian casualties, as reported by health authorities in Gaza. Israel has also indicated its intention to intensify its operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, amidst ongoing cross-border exchanges related to the conflict in Gaza.