Saudi Foreign Ministry Says Israel’s West Bank Decision Undermines Peace Efforts

Riyadh: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned Israel’s recent decision regarding land classification in the occupied West Bank, warning that the move threatens regional peace and stability.

In an official statement issued Monday, the Kingdom criticized what it described as a decision by Israeli occupation authorities to rename areas of the West Bank as “State Lands” under their administration. The Ministry said the measure forms part of broader plans to impose a new legal and administrative reality in the occupied Palestinian territories.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s condemnation of the Israeli occupation authorities’ decision … as part of plans aimed at imposing a new legal and administrative reality in the occupied West Bank, and undermining the ongoing efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region,” the statement said.

Saudi Arabia reaffirmed that Israel has no sovereignty over Palestinian territories and stressed that such actions undermine the prospects of a two-state solution. The Kingdom reiterated its longstanding position in support of the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on internationally recognized borders.

The statement follows a decision by the Israeli cabinet to approve additional measures aimed at expanding administrative control in the West Bank and facilitating land purchases by settlers. Palestinian officials described the move as a de facto annexation.

Several Arab countries, including Qatar, Egypt, and Jordan, have also criticized the decision, expressing concern over its implications for regional stability.

Saudi Arabia emphasized that achieving lasting peace requires adherence to international law and renewed commitment to diplomatic solutions that ensure the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.