Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Addresses Humanitarian Crisis At Cairo Conference On Gaza

Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, led Saudi Arabia's delegation at the Cairo Ministerial Conference aimed at boosting humanitarian efforts in Gaza. During his address, he warned of the severe threat posed by the ongoing escalation and regional spread of the conflict, which could lead to an uncontrollable full-scale war.

He highlighted that the humanitarian situation in Palestine has reached intolerable levels. Nearly 44,000 Palestinians have died, over 100,000 have been injured, and about 350,000 are enduring dire conditions. The minister stressed that further deterioration is unacceptable.

Prince Faisal pointed out that massacres targeting civilians, infrastructure destruction in Gaza, and policies of repression affect nearly two million people. These actions perpetuate suffering and fuel extremism. He emphasized that these practices expand conflict scope and hinder peace opportunities.

The minister condemned illegal settlements in the West Bank and actions affecting Jerusalem's legal status as violations of international law. He called for an end to these practices to prevent prolonging violence and destruction cycles.

Prince Faisal urged for an immediate ceasefire, stressing responsible actions to protect lives and properties. He called for efforts to prevent violence escalation, activate accountability mechanisms, end impunity policies, and ensure unhindered humanitarian aid delivery.

The Kingdom strongly condemned attacks on UN workers and agencies like UNRWA and UNIFIL. Prince Faisal warned that a new Israeli law prohibiting UNRWA activities within Israel could have catastrophic consequences for the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Saudi Arabia's Humanitarian Efforts

The Kingdom has provided significant aid to victims of Israeli aggression. Since the crisis began, Saudi Arabia has implemented programs worth over SAR500 million in Gaza. Additionally, more than 6,600 tons of humanitarian aid have been delivered to Palestinians in Gaza.

This aid includes food, shelter supplies, medicines, medical equipment, and ambulances. Prince Faisal affirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting those affected by the conflict.

Pathway to Peace

Prince Faisal stated: "The tragic circumstances in the region compel us to redouble our efforts to prevent the expansion of the conflict." He emphasized addressing root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to create conditions conducive to stability.

The foreign minister stressed returning to serious negotiations based on a two-state solution per international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. This would ensure Palestinians' right to establish an independent state within 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

International Law Adherence

Recognizing Palestinian statehood is crucial for regional security and international system credibility. Prince Faisal emphasized adherence to international law and relevant UN resolutions like Security Council Resolution 2735 on Gaza ceasefire and Resolution 2334 on halting illegal settlements.

The brutal extermination in Gaza tests the international system significantly. Prince Faisal stressed using all means available to end Palestinian suffering humanely and justly.

The conference was attended by Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah from King Salman Humanitarian Aid Centre, Saudi Ambassador Saleh Al-Husseini, and Abdulrahman AlDawood from the Foreign Minister’s Office.

With inputs from SPA