Saudi Arabia's Commitment To The Palestinian Cause: A Legacy Established By King Abdulaziz

Saudi Arabia has consistently shown unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, deeply rooted in the principles set by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud. This commitment spans political, economic, social, and health domains. The Kingdom's backing has been evident through various stages of the Palestinian struggle, reflecting a steadfast dedication to their rights on international platforms.

The late King Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was a strong advocate for Palestine. His support began as Crown Prince and continued after he became King. He visited Palestine in 1935 and extended political and moral support internationally. Financial aid and care for martyrs' families were also part of his efforts, along with welcoming many Palestinians to Saudi Arabia.

King Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud played a pivotal role in elevating the Palestinian issue from an Arab concern to an Islamic one. At the first Islamic Summit Conference in Rabat in September 1969, he sought solidarity among Muslim nations following the burning of the Al-Aqsa Mosque. His advocacy aimed at uniting Islamic countries behind the Palestinian cause.

During King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's reign, efforts to strengthen support for Palestine intensified. He engaged with leaders visiting Saudi Arabia to rally backing at both Arab and Islamic levels. This approach highlighted the Kingdom's commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights globally.

King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's tenure saw multifaceted support for Palestine, encompassing media, financial, educational, health, social, and religious assistance. Politically, his peace initiative proposed in August 1981 gained endorsement at the 12th Arab Summit in Morocco in 1982. This initiative underscored Saudi Arabia's dedication to finding peaceful resolutions.

The late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud furthered this legacy by proposing the Al-Quds intifada fund during the Arab Summit in Cairo in October 2000. With $200 million initial capital, it supported Palestinian martyrs' families. Additionally, he launched the $800 million Al-Aqsa fund to preserve Jerusalem's Arab and Islamic identity.

Continued Commitment

At the Arab Summit in Beirut in March 2002, Saudi Arabia presented a practical framework for resolving Middle East conflicts comprehensively and justly. Known as the Arab Peace Initiative, it was adopted by Arab leaders during this summit. This proposal reinforced Saudi Arabia's commitment to achieving lasting peace.

In April 2018, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud named the 29th Arab Summit held in Dhahran as the Al-Quds Summit. He announced donations of $150 million for Islamic endowments in Jerusalem and $50 million to UNRWA for Palestine refugees.

Humanitarian Efforts

The Kingdom remains one of the world's leading donors to Palestine. According to the Saudi Aid Platform, total assistance has reached over $5 billion across 295 projects. Since Gaza's crisis began, Saudi Arabia has provided urgent humanitarian aid under King Salman's guidance and HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

A nationwide fundraising campaign raised over SAR697 million for Gaza's Palestinians. Aid was delivered via air and sea routes alongside monthly financial support addressing Gaza's humanitarian crisis. These efforts highlight Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to its Arab and Islamic responsibilities.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reiterated this commitment during his presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council session in December 2022. He emphasized advocating for a fair solution based on international legitimacy and establishing an independent Palestinian state on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

With inputs from SPA