In an extraordinary BRICS summit held on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged all nations to halt weapon exports to Israel amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. As South Africa hosts the virtual meeting of major emerging economies, the discussions aim to develop a unified response to address the situation. This blog delves into the key statements made by Prince Mohammed bin Salman and highlights Saudi Arabia’s stance on the conflict, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive peace process and the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Call for Peace:
During the BRICS summit, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the urgent need for a serious and comprehensive peace process to establish a Palestinian state along the borders of 1967. He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s firm stance that security and stability in Palestine can only be achieved through the implementation of international decisions related to the two-state solution. The Crown Prince described the Kingdom’s position as constant and unwavering in supporting the resolution of the conflict.
Saudi Arabia’s Rejection of Israel’s Military Operations:
Prince Mohammed bin Salman also reiterated Saudi Arabia’s strong opposition to Israel’s military operations in the Gaza Strip and demanded an immediate halt to them. He referred to the unfolding “brutal crimes” in Gaza, emphasizing the necessity for collective efforts to bring an end to the violence. The Crown Prince condemned the forced displacement of Palestinians and called for collaborative endeavors to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian conditions in the enclave.
Saudi Arabia’s Efforts to Protect Civilians:
Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlighted Saudi Arabia’s tireless efforts since the beginning of the October 7 conflict to protect civilians in the Gaza Strip. As one of the leading voices in the region, the Kingdom has been actively involved in seeking ways to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. The Crown Prince reiterated Saudi Arabia’s commitment to mitigating the impact of the crisis and finding a sustainable solution.
The Ongoing Israel-Hamas Conflict:
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has seen escalating violence, with devastating consequences for both sides. Hamas gunmen’s cross-border raids on October 7 resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, mainly civilians, constituting one of the deadliest attacks in Israel’s history. In response, Israel launched a relentless bombing campaign and ground offensive in Gaza, where Hamas is in power. According to authorities in Gaza, the war has claimed the lives of over 13,300 people, including thousands of children.
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s call for halting weapon exports to Israel at the BRICS summit reflects the Kingdom’s strong commitment to peace and stability in the region. The emphasis on a serious and comprehensive peace process, the establishment of a Palestinian state, and a collective effort to end the violence and protect civilians underscores Saudi Arabia’s desire for a just resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict. As discussions continue at the summit, it is crucial for nations to come together, align their efforts, and work towards sustainable peace in the region.
