Saudi-Israeli Normalization Stalled by Lack of Palestinian State: Prince Turki

[Suyuti]

London, September 14, 2024 – Prince Turki Al-Faisal, former head of Saudi Arabia's intelligence services, has stated that normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel will not occur until a sovereign Palestinian state is established. This significant announcement came during a lecture at Chatham House, a London-based think tank.

Prince Turki emphasized that while the United States is interested in renewing dialogue between Israel and Saudi Arabia to enhance regional security and economic ties, Riyadh remains firm on its stance. The Saudi position is clear: normalization discussions with Israel are contingent upon the creation of a Palestinian state recognized by Israel.

Prior to the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, progress had been made in these discussions, including Saudi Arabia's initiative to facilitate direct talks between Palestinian representatives and American officials. However, the violence has since derailed these negotiations.

The former Saudi ambassador to the US underscored that the establishment of a Palestinian state is essential not only for Saudi-Israeli relations but also for broader acceptance within the Muslim world. He reiterated that the Saudi vision includes a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Prince Turki highlighted Saudi Arabia's historical efforts towards peace, referencing the 1981 King Fahd Peace Plan and the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative proposed by King Abdullah. During the ongoing Gaza conflict, Saudi Arabia has spearheaded efforts within the Muslim world to end the violence, led by the Saudi foreign minister.

Criticizing Western nations, Prince Turki pointed out that the US and other Western countries have failed to exert sufficient pressure on Israel. He specifically called out the UK for its delayed suspension of arms exports to Israel and advocated for the recognition of a Palestinian state by the UK as overdue.

Prince Turki also suggested that the US could leverage its influence over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by addressing financial and lobbying practices related to Israel. He argued that withdrawing tax-free benefits enjoyed by Israeli lobbyists could apply substantial pressure on Israel.

In summary, Prince Turki Al-Faisal's comments underscore Saudi Arabia's firm stance on the Palestinian issue as a prerequisite for normalization with Israel, reflecting broader geopolitical and diplomatic dynamics in the region.