Saudi Arabia reaffirms 2-state solution key to regional stability

By Mohammad Sio

ISTANBUL (AA) – Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment on Monday to a two-state solution as the cornerstone of peace in the Middle East, calling for urgent international action to end the decades-long Israeli occupation and halt a worsening humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip.

Speaking at the opening of a high-level conference on a two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict at the UN headquarters in New York, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said the kingdom welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent pledge to recognize a Palestinian state officially.

“This step reflects a serious international move toward realizing the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” he said.

The two-day conference, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, convened at the UN General Assembly and focuses on reviving peace talks and advancing the implementation of a two-state solution.

“Granting the Palestinians their legitimate rights is the real gateway to achieving peace in the region,” Prince Faisal said, calling for an immediate end to “the humanitarian catastrophe resulting from continuous Israeli violations.”

He described the UN gathering as a “pivotal moment” to revive momentum for peace and reiterated that the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative -- first proposed by Saudi Arabia at the Arab summit in Beirut -- remains a comprehensive framework for a just and lasting resolution.

The Arab initiative offers Israel diplomatic recognition in return for withdrawal from occupied Arab lands.