Riyadh Summit Pushes For Gaza Ceasefire And Recognition Of Palestinian State

In a significant diplomatic effort to address the ongoing conflict in Gaza, HH Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and HE Mr. Espen Barth Eide, Foreign Minister of Norway, co-chaired a pivotal meeting in Riyadh on 29 April 2024. The gathering, which brought together the Ministerial Committee from the Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit and European Foreign Ministers and representatives, focused on the urgent cessation of hostilities in Gaza and the advancement of the two-state solution.

The meeting saw participation from a wide array of nations and organizations, including Algeria, Bahrain, Belgium, Egypt, the European Union, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Jordan, the League of Arab States, Palestine, Portugal, Qatar, Slovenia, Spain, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. A consensus emerged on several critical points: the need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and an end to the war in Gaza. Participants also called for a halt to all illegal unilateral actions and violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including East Jerusalem.

Amidst discussions was the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. The assembly underscored the necessity of transitioning the conflict onto a political track to foster a sustainable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Deliberations included concrete steps towards the establishment of a Palestinian State within the framework of a two-state solution. The urgency of such measures and the importance of coordinated international efforts were highlighted.

Another focal point was the potential recognition of a Palestinian State by countries that have yet to do so. The timing and context of such recognition were debated. The meeting stressed adopting a comprehensive approach to ensure a credible and irreversible path towards implementing the two-state solution. This approach must align with international law, United Nations Security Council Resolutions, and initiatives like the Arab Peace Initiative.

The ultimate goal outlined was to achieve a just and lasting peace that secures the rights of the Palestinian people alongside Israel's security and regional stability. This peace is seen as a cornerstone for fostering normal relations between nations in a region aspiring for security, peace, and cooperation. Additionally, there was an emphasis on bolstering state-building efforts and supporting a unified Palestinian Government for both the West Bank (including East Jerusalem) and Gaza.

This meeting in Riyadh marks a critical juncture in international efforts to resolve one of the most enduring conflicts in modern history. The collective call for immediate action reflects a shared commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East.

With inputs from SPA