No diplomatic relations with Israel until recognition of an independent Palestinian State : Saudi Arabia

Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) – Saudi Arabia has communicated to the US that it will not begin diplomatic relations with Israel until Israel halts its aggression in Gaza and recognises Palestine as an independent State. Despite US efforts to enhance Israel-Saudi Arabia relations, Saudi Arabia remains firm on these conditions.

After arriving in Riyadh on 5th February, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the Israel-Hamas war with Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The following day, the US expressed readiness to discuss establishing diplomatic relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia has declined to establish relations with Israel following this US statement. Notably, Saudi Arabia has yet to formally recognise Israel as a country, leading to the absence of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Saudi Arabian authorities state that normalisation of relations with Israel is possible, contingent on accepting the terms of the 2002 Arab peace proposal. This proposal entails Israel relinquishing control over all areas claimed in the 1967 war, recognising Palestine as an independent country, and designating East Jerusalem as its capital. All Arab countries have accepted these conditions.