In an innovative address during the joint summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed Bin Salman, called for the establishment of a Palestinian state along the borders that existed before the Six-Day War in 1967. This significant statement was made against the background of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, a situation that deeply moved Mohammed Bin Salman. Expressing deep concern for the violence in Gaza, Mohammed Bin Salman highlighted the pain felt by the international community witnessing the hike of violence, particularly affecting innocent civilians. He actively condemned the targeting of civilians and stressed the utmost importance of adhering to international humanitarian law. Mohammed Bin Salman highlighted the need to halt military operations against civilians and infrastructure, actions that significantly impact the daily lives of people in conflict zones.
Saudi Arabia’s position, as articulated by Mohammed Bin Salman, is a rejection of the continuous violence against civilians and a call for the creation of conditions that pave the way for stability and lasting peace. Mohammed Bin Salman’s statement carries weight as it underscores the necessity for a just solution, one that culminates in the establishment of a Palestinian state within the borders that were internationally recognized before the Six-Day War in 1967. He argued that such a resolution would not only ensure security but also prosperity for all parties involved.
This call for a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders is notable in the context of the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It aligns with a 2017 policy document from Hamas, a Palestinian political organization, which suggested the potential acceptance of a Palestinian state within the territories occupied by Israel during the Six-Day War. However, it stands in stark contrast to the stance of the Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which has frequently rejected the idea of reverting to the 1967 borders.
MBS’s statement signifies Saudi Arabia’s commitment to seeking a peaceful resolution to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By advocating for a just solution that respects historical borders and international law, Saudi Arabia joins the international community in its pursuit of stability and prosperity in the region. The call for adherence to humanitarian principles and the rejection of violence against civilians underscores the kingdom’s dedication to promoting peace and security, not only within the region but also on a global scale.
