Saudi Arabia will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel until the decision to establish an independent Palestinian state—with East Jerusalem as its capital—is implemented. This is noted in a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi MFA added in its statement that Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister clearly and unequivocally reaffirmed this stance, which does not allow for any interpretation under any circumstances.

The Kingdom confirms that this firm position is non-negotiable, and a lasting and just peace cannot be achieved without the establishment of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people—and in accordance with resolutions on international legitimacy. This position has been previously communicated to past and current US administrations, the statement added.

Also, the Saudi MFA rejected actions that violate the rights of the Palestinian people, including Israel’s settlement policies, annexation of Palestinian territories, and attempts to resettle Palestinians.

It is the responsibility of the international community to work today to alleviate the grave suffering of the Palestinian people, added the Saudi MFA.