Saudi Arabia and Malaysia jointly emphasized the urgent need for a military de-escalation in Palestinian territories and the protection of civilians in an announcement made on Sunday.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that during a meeting between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, both parties underscored the international community’s role in pressuring Israel to halt its plans involving the invasion of the Gaza Strip.
The statement further noted that Saudi Arabia and Malaysia also issued warnings against the forced displacement of Palestinians and the grave consequences it would entail.
Both nations called upon the international community to compel Israel to respect international law and humanitarian law, emphasizing the necessity of enabling international humanitarian organizations to fulfill their roles in providing humanitarian aid and relief to the Palestinian people.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had previously stressed the importance of exerting all possible efforts to reduce the escalation of violence and ensuring that the scope of conflict does not widen. He also emphasized the need to lift the blockade on Gaza to allow the entry of medical and humanitarian assistance into the region.
Saudi Arabia firmly rejects any form of targeting civilians and underlines the significance of abiding by international humanitarian law. The Kingdom advocates for the cessation of military operations against civilians and infrastructure that affects their daily lives.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a long-standing and deeply entrenched dispute over land, identity, and sovereignty in the Middle East. With its roots dating back to the late 19th century, the conflict centers on the competing national aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians for self-determination in the same territory. It has witnessed numerous wars, negotiations, peace processes, and intermittent violence, leaving both sides with profound grievances and mistrust. The issues at the heart of the conflict include borders, the status of Jerusalem, the right of return for Palestinian refugees, security, and the establishment of a viable, independent Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel. International efforts to broker a lasting resolution continue, with the hope of achieving a two-state solution that guarantees the security and prosperity of both Israelis and Palestinians while addressing their historical grievances.