Saudi Arabia Conditions Israel Diplomatic Ties on Palestinian Statehood and End to Gaza Aggression
Saudi Arabia reaffirms its stance, rejecting diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognized and Israeli military actions in Gaza cease.
- Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry asserts no diplomatic ties with Israel without a Palestinian state and an end to Israeli 'aggression' on Gaza.
- The kingdom's position comes in response to U.S. claims of separate tracks for hostage release and Israel-Saudi normalization.
- Saudi Arabia's stance remains unchanged despite U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby's optimistic comments on normalization discussions.
- The issue of formalizing Israel-Saudi ties has been on hold since the escalation of the conflict between Hamas and Israeli forces in October 2023.
- Saudi Arabia's firm stance underscores the importance of resolving the Palestinian issue and ending the conflict in Gaza for regional peace.