Saudi Arabia And US Reveal Progress On Security Deal At WEF Meeting In Riyadh

Riyadh: The Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, announced significant advancements toward a security deal between their countries during a World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Riyadh.

Addressing the gathering, Prince Faisal emphasized Saudi Arabia's call for an immediate and sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, urging for a comprehensive solution to establish a Palestinian state. Secretary Blinken echoed this sentiment and urged Hamas to swiftly consider an "extraordinarily generous" offer from Israel, emphasizing the urgency to end the crisis in Gaza.

Secretary Blinken further stated that resolving the crisis in Gaza and charting a path toward the establishment of a Palestinian state are essential for the normalization of ties between Israel and regional states. He emphasized the importance of finding a credible and irreversible solution to create a Palestinian state.

During the panel discussion at the WEF special meeting in Riyadh, Prince Faisal stressed the international community's responsibility to establish a "credible and irreversible" path toward the realization of a Palestinian state. Drawing attention to the United Nations' estimate that Gaza's reconstruction will take 30 years, he emphasized the importance of addressing the plight of Palestinians in the West Bank as well.

Prince Faisal shared that Saudi Arabia and the US are nearing the finalization of bilateral agreements, expecting them to be sealed in the near future. He mentioned that most of the work has already been completed and that they have outlined the necessary steps on the Palestinian front.

Regarding Iran's regional role, Prince Faisal emphasized the need to prioritize Palestinian rights and self-determination. He suggested that resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict could strengthen regional independence and provide an opportunity for Iran to promote peace and cooperation.

Secretary Blinken echoed Prince Faisal's statement, affirming that the US is close to finalizing a security deal with Saudi Arabia. He mentioned that the collaborative work between Saudi Arabia and the US on these agreements is on track and nearing completion.

Secretary Blinken urged Hamas to make a prompt decision on Israel's offer, stating that it has the potential to bring about a transformative change. He assured that the US would not support any significant Israeli military action that harms civilians.

The US Secretary of State also expressed gratitude to Qatar and Egypt for their efforts to secure a ceasefire. He emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.

In response to questions about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Secretary Blinken stated that the US is doing everything it can to alleviate the suffering seen daily since October. He emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and the protection of civilians.

When discussing the broader efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and establish a Palestinian state, Secretary Blinken emphasized the need for both humanitarian assistance in Gaza and a political plan for the Palestinians. He outlined two paths for the region—one focused on integration and cooperation, leading to security and stability.

Regarding talks on a US-Saudi bilateral agreement for normalization with Israel, Secretary Blinken acknowledged progress but stressed the importance of resolving the crisis in Gaza and establishing a Palestinian state first. He believed that fostering relations between Israel and all regional countries, alongside the creation of a Palestinian state, would effectively counter Iran and Hamas.