Mohammed bin Salman: Establishing an independent Palestinian state remains a steadfast Saudi goal

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said on Wednesday that establishing an independent Palestinian state remains a steadfast goal for Saudi Arabia, reaffirming the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Palestinian rights.

The Crown Prince made the remarks in the annual royal address, delivered on behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz at the opening of the third year of the Shura Council’s ninth session.

Mohammed bin Salman said Saudi Arabia possesses highly capable human and military resources enabling it to confront and deter threats regardless of their source, stressing that protecting the Kingdom’s security and stability remains a priority on which it will not compromise.

He said attacks targeting members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) demonstrated the interconnected nature of their security and stability. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to working with other Gulf countries to strengthen regional security, strategic cooperation and economic integration.

The Crown Prince said the Kingdom was making intensive efforts to contain regional tensions and support political and diplomatic solutions, while remaining prepared to take decisive action against threats to its security or national interests.

READ: Saudi official denies Saudi-Israeli meeting in UAE

He added that rapid developments in the region had demonstrated the importance of flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining a long-term strategic vision.

As part of efforts to strengthen regional stability, Mohammed bin Salman announced the establishment of what he called the “Mecca Defense Alliance,” comprising Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan and aimed at coordinating joint efforts to support security and stability in the region. He also expressed appreciation for countries supporting these efforts.

Turning to the Palestinian issue, the Crown Prince reiterated Saudi Arabia’s condemnation of Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip and repeated violations at the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

He said support for the rights of the Palestinian people remained a steadfast and unchanged Saudi position and pledged that the Kingdom would continue its efforts until Palestinians secure their legitimate rights and establish an independent state in accordance with international terms of reference.

READ: Saudi crown prince says ‘Mecca Defense Alliance’ with Turkiye, Pakistan aims to bolster regional stability