As part of the ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to promote stability in the Middle East, His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today received a series of telephone calls from his counterparts in four key countries, including the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Sultanate of Oman, the Republic of Turkey, and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

His Highness the Foreign Minister began his diplomatic activities by receiving a telephone call from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs, Dr. Badr Abdel-Aty. The call focused on reviewing the deep-rooted fraternal relations between the two brotherly countries, which are a cornerstone of Arab national security. The two sides also discussed the latest developments in the region, in light of the ongoing coordination between Riyadh and Cairo on critical issues of concern to the Arab nation.

In a related development, Prince Faisal bin Farhan discussed regional developments and efforts to address them during a telephone call with the Omani Foreign Minister, Mr. Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. This call underscores the depth of Gulf relations and the shared destiny of the GCC states, as well as the importance of ongoing coordination to confront the growing challenges in the region.

His Highness also received a telephone call from the Turkish Foreign Minister, Mr. Hakan Fidan, during which they discussed regional developments and international efforts to contain them. These talks reflect the remarkable progress in Saudi-Turkish relations and the two countries' commitment to ongoing consultations to ensure regional security and prevent further conflicts.

Regarding relations with major Islamic countries, the Foreign Minister discussed the rapidly evolving situation in the region during a telephone call with the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Ishaq Dar. The two sides discussed ways to de-escalate tensions in order to preserve regional security and stability, building upon the historical and strategic relationship between the Kingdom and Pakistan.

These contacts are of paramount importance at this time, given the geopolitical turmoil in the region, which necessitates concerted international and regional efforts. These intensive discussions underscore the leading role played by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in pursuing de-escalation, prioritizing dialogue, and working diligently with regional and international partners to defuse crises and achieve international peace and security.

At the conclusion of its extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers held in Jeddah, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) reaffirmed the firm and unwavering position of its member states regarding the centrality of the Palestinian cause, stressing its categorical rejection of all Israeli measures aimed at changing the legal and historical status of the occupied territories, including attempts to strengthen settlement activity and impose alleged sovereignty over the West Bank and Jerusalem.

The centrality of the issue and historical responsibility

This meeting comes at a highly sensitive time for the region, serving as a reminder of the foundational role of the organization, which was established primarily to defend Jerusalem. The ministers reaffirmed the political, legal, and moral responsibility of the Islamic world to stand in full solidarity with the Palestinian people, guided by the principles of the UN Charter, which criminalizes the acquisition of territory by force.

The final statement stressed that Palestinian rights are inalienable, foremost among them the right to self-determination, the right of return, and the realization of the independence of a sovereign State of Palestine on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, as the fundamental pillar of any just and comprehensive peace in the region.

Rejection of unilateral actions and provocative statements

The meeting condemned in the strongest terms the escalating steps taken by Israel, the occupying power, to impose a new colonial reality through settlement expansion and the deepening of its policies of Judaization and land confiscation. The organization deemed these measures “null and void” under international law and considered them war crimes that threaten international peace and security.

In a related context, the organization condemned recent statements by the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, and the steps taken to provide consular services to settlers in the West Bank. The statement emphasized that such actions constitute a violation of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and a direct endorsement of the illegal settlement project, stressing that they will not alter the legal status of the occupied territory.

Palestinian land unity and support for Gaza

The organization unequivocally affirmed the unity of the Palestinian territory as a single, indivisible geopolitical entity, encompassing the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and Jerusalem. The meeting called for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, a complete Israeli withdrawal, and the facilitation of unhindered humanitarian access, declaring the organization's full support for the State of Palestine in its recovery and reconstruction plans.

The participants also renewed their support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), condemning the Israeli attacks and measures against it, and calling on the international community to provide the necessary financial and political support for the continuation of its vital work.

Regional and international dimensions

The meeting did not overlook the escalating tensions in the Middle East, with ministers expressing grave concern over the rhetoric of confrontation and threats of force, including those related to Iran. The statement emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy are the only path to achieving lasting security, warning that any military escalation would have disastrous consequences for the global economy and energy security.

In conclusion, the organization welcomed the diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing the escalation, appreciating the role of mediating countries such as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, and affirming its determination to take all legal and political measures in international forums, including the Security Council and the International Court of Justice, to hold the occupation accountable and end the era of colonialism.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received a telephone call today from the Right Honourable British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This call comes within the framework of ongoing communication between the leaderships of the two friendly countries to enhance joint coordination in various fields.

During the call, the two sides reviewed the distinguished bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom, discussing areas of bilateral cooperation and mechanisms for strengthening them in a way that serves the common interests of the two friendly nations. The call also addressed a number of regional and international issues of mutual concern, and the efforts being made to promote security and stability.

The depth of historical relations and strategic partnership

Saudi-British relations are based on a long historical legacy spanning more than a century and are characterized by a strategic nature encompassing various political, economic, and security spheres. The two countries work diligently through the Saudi-British Strategic Partnership Council to align their shared objectives. The United Kingdom is a key partner for the Kingdom in its development journey, while Saudi Arabia represents a fundamental pillar of economic and political stability in the Middle East region.

Prospects for cooperation under Vision 2030

Cooperation between Riyadh and London is gaining further momentum under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which opens up vast opportunities for investment and economic partnerships. British companies are eager to contribute to the Kingdom’s mega-projects, particularly in the renewable energy, technology, financial services, infrastructure, and tourism sectors. This engagement reflects the commitment of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his government to sustaining and developing this fruitful economic partnership and capitalizing on the promising opportunities offered by the growing Saudi economy.

Coordinating positions on international issues

Internationally, both Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom play pivotal roles within the G20, making coordination between them vital for addressing global challenges. This call underscores the importance of ongoing consultations between the Crown Prince and the British Prime Minister on pressing issues, including global energy security, counterterrorism, and working towards the peaceful resolution of conflicts, thus reinforcing the two countries' role as influential players in international decision-making.