Introduction
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and emphasized the need for humanitarian aid access. He made these statements during a joint press conference in Istanbul with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.
Key Points from the Press Conference
Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid
1. Immediate Ceasefire: Prince Faisal bin Farhan urged for an immediate halt to hostilities in Gaza.
2. Humanitarian Aid: He stressed the urgent need for humanitarian aid to reach Palestinians, who are facing severe hardships due to the conflict.
3. Obstruction of Aid: The Saudi Foreign Minister accused Israel of “systematically obstructing” the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Political Solution
- Two-State Solution: Bin Farhan highlighted the importance of reviving the two-state solution as a political path to resolve the conflict in Palestine.
- Political Horizon: He called for establishing a genuine and effective path to achieve peace and stability in the region.
Current Situation in Gaza
- Casualties: Nearly 38,600 Palestinians have been killed, and 88,900 others injured since the Israeli offensive began on October 7, following a Hamas attack.
- Destruction: Gaza is in ruins, and its people are suffering from a lack of food, clean water, and medicine due to a crippling blockade.
Saudi Arabia and Turkey Relations
- Economic Cooperation: Prince Faisal bin Farhan expressed Saudi Arabia’s determination to explore further opportunities for economic and developmental cooperation with Turkey.
- Trade Exchange: The trade exchange between Saudi Arabia and Turkey has reached $6.8 billion, reflecting strong economic ties between the two countries.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s call for a ceasefire in Gaza and emphasis on humanitarian aid highlights the urgent need for relief in the region. The revival of the two-state solution remains a crucial aspect of their strategy to achieve lasting peace. Additionally, Saudi Arabia is committed to strengthening its economic and developmental cooperation with Turkey.