Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Highlights Urgent Need For Action On Palestine At Security Council Session

On Friday, Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in a Security Council session on Palestine. This took place during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. In his speech, he thanked Slovenia for responding to Algeria's invitation to hold this session and for its support in establishing international peace and security, particularly through its recognition of the State of Palestine.

Prince Faisal highlighted the importance of keeping the Palestinian issue at the forefront of the Security Council's agenda. He pointed out ongoing Israeli violations and worsening humanitarian conditions. The prolonged crisis and escalating conflict have had serious consequences. He expressed concern over six out of ten draft resolutions being vetoed since last October, with no success in achieving a ceasefire or addressing humanitarian needs.

The Minister noted a widening gap between international consensus and differences within the Security Council. This has hindered its performance and weakened outcomes. He referenced General Assembly resolutions calling for a ceasefire, uninterrupted humanitarian aid, and Palestinians' right to self-determination. He appreciated the General Assembly's decision on Palestine's eligibility for full UN membership and its call for Israel to end its occupation.

Prince Faisal emphasised that achieving peace requires empowerment from international institutions like the Security Council. It demands courage in decision-making and commitment to implementation. The legal and moral responsibility to resolve the Palestinian crisis lies with the Security Council, which has been hampered by political considerations.

The Foreign Minister addressed those advocating waiting for negotiations to establish a Palestinian state without unilateral actions. He questioned what should be done when Israel refuses even to recognise the two-state solution principle while continuing unilateral measures undermining prospects for resolution.

"The time has come to launch a serious partnership for peace," Prince Faisal stated. He urged members of the international community, especially those yet to recognise Palestine, to support the two-state solution and preserve chances for coexistence and sustainable peace.

Saudi Arabia's Commitment

Prince Faisal affirmed Saudi Arabia's belief that ending occupation and implementing a two-state solution is key to stopping violence, alleviating suffering, and achieving regional stability. In collaboration with partners like Norway and the European Union, Saudi Arabia launched an "International Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution" as part of their shared responsibility to change conflict realities.

The Minister reiterated Saudi Arabia's commitment to establishing an independent Palestinian state based on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. This aligns with Palestinians' inherent right to self-determination.

With inputs from SPA