UNITED NATIONS: Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, called on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to take decisive action to resolve the ongoing crisis in Palestine. Speaking at a UNSC session on Palestine, Prince Faisal emphasized that the responsibility to end the conflict lies with the council, which has been hindered by political factors. He expressed frustration that political considerations have prevented the UNSC from fulfilling its duties, leaving the conflict unresolved.
Prince Faisal stressed that the key to stopping the cycle of violence in the region is ending the Israeli occupation and implementing a two-state solution. He highlighted that this solution would alleviate the suffering of Palestinians and contribute to regional stability. To this end, Saudi Arabia has launched, in partnership with the Joint Arab-Islamic Ministerial Committee, Norway, and the European Union, the “International Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.” This initiative is part of the Kingdom’s commitment to resolving the conflict and promoting peace in the region.
The minister reiterated Saudi Arabia’s firm stance on the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. He underscored the Palestinians’ right to self-determination, emphasizing the Kingdom’s unwavering support for their cause.
Prince Faisal also commended Slovenia for supporting Algeria’s call to hold the UNSC session and for its historical recognition of the Palestinian state. He stressed the importance of keeping the Palestinian issue at the forefront of the UNSC’s agenda, particularly in light of ongoing Israeli violations and the deteriorating humanitarian situation.
Addressing the council’s inaction, Prince Faisal pointed out that six out of 10 draft resolutions since October have been vetoed, and those that were adopted have failed to bring about a ceasefire or address the dire humanitarian situation. He expressed disappointment with the lack of meaningful progress, questioning what more is needed for the council to implement international law and end the suffering of Palestinians.
The Saudi foreign minister also criticized the growing gap between international consensus and internal divisions within the UNSC, which has hindered the council’s ability to act effectively. He praised the UN General Assembly’s decision to grant Palestine additional privileges and recognized its recent resolution calling for Israel to end its occupation of Palestinian territories.
Prince Faisal concluded by stressing that achieving peace requires decisive action from the international community, particularly from the UNSC. He called for courage and commitment in decision-making, arguing that waiting for negotiations to recognize a Palestinian state is futile when Israel refuses to acknowledge the two-state solution. He urged the UNSC and the international community to support the two-state solution and take immediate steps to ensure coexistence and sustainable peace in the region.
