Saudi Arabia’s Role in Advancing the Two-State Solution: A Palestinian Perspective

In a recent interview on the Arab News current affairs program “Frankly Speaking,” Riyad Mansour, Palestine’s permanent observer to the United Nations, expressed profound appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s leadership in promoting the two-state solution. He emphasized that the Kingdom’s efforts, particularly those spearheaded by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, are crucial for the future of the Palestinian people.

The Formation of an International Coalition

Mansour highlighted the significance of the international coalition initiated by Saudi Arabia during the UN General Assembly. This coalition, which includes key global players such as the European Union and Norway, aims to pressure Israel into complying with international laws and resolutions that mandate an end to the occupation of Palestinian territories. “About 90 countries participated, among them 90 foreign ministers,” Mansour noted, underscoring the broad international support for this initiative.

The coalition’s formation represents a pivotal step towards realizing Palestinian statehood, according to Mansour. He praised Saudi Arabia for mobilizing such extensive international backing and indicated that the coalition’s next steps would be determined at an upcoming conference in Riyadh. This conference aims to adopt an action plan that will push for the end of the occupation and facilitate the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state.

The Vision for Palestinian Statehood

Mansour articulated a clear vision for the future of Palestine, emphasizing the need for independence and recognition as a full member of the United Nations. He stated, “The independence of the State of Palestine… needs to be a full member in the UN to have parity.” This recognition is seen as essential for addressing the complexities surrounding the evacuation of Israeli settlements and the broader implications of the occupation.

He reiterated that the two-state solution remains the only viable path to peace in the region, with East Jerusalem as the capital of the future Palestinian state. Mansour’s statements reflect a deep-seated belief that international legal mechanisms, such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC), must play a role in holding Israel accountable for its actions, particularly in Gaza, where a significant humanitarian crisis persists.

Accountability and International Legal Mechanisms

Mansour pointed to the ICJ’s ruling in July regarding the legality of Israel’s occupation as a historic advisory opinion. However, he acknowledged the limitations of the court in enforcing its rulings, stating, “The court doesn’t have an enforceability power.” He stressed that the responsibility for enforcing international law lies with the global community, including the UN General Assembly and Security Council.

He called for concrete actions following the ICJ’s ruling, urging member states to take decisive steps to end the occupation. Mansour specifically appealed to countries that supply Israel with weapons to halt their support, arguing that such actions only embolden Israel’s military campaigns against Palestinians.

The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with Mansour expressing concern that the international community may be turning a blind eye to the ongoing atrocities. He emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians in the enclave. “We hope that momentum will culminate in putting in place a ceasefire and the beginning of sending humanitarian assistance,” he stated, highlighting the approaching winter and the need for shelter for displaced individuals.

Mansour did not shy away from criticizing the role of the United States in the conflict, accusing Washington of failing to leverage its influence to halt the violence in Gaza. He argued that the U.S. could have exerted pressure on Israel to cease its military operations but has instead allowed the situation to escalate.

Critique of Israeli Leadership

Mansour also directed criticism towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that the ongoing conflict is being exploited for political gain. He accused Netanyahu of using the crisis to bolster his domestic position and evade corruption charges, warning that such actions could destabilize the entire region.

Saudi Arabia’s Financial Support

In addition to diplomatic efforts, Mansour commended Saudi Arabia for its financial support to the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza. He welcomed the Kingdom’s announcement of monthly financial aid, which he described as a significant step in ensuring the survival of Palestinians under occupation. To date, Saudi aid has totaled more than $5.3 billion, reinforcing the message that the fate of Palestine is not solely in Israel’s hands.

A Call for Global Action

Mansour concluded his remarks by calling on the international community to take decisive action to end the conflict and achieve peace. He expressed optimism that the Saudi-led coalition could serve as a catalyst for meaningful change, but emphasized that more must be done to hold Israel accountable and bring an end to the occupation.

He noted a growing global support for Palestine, citing recent shifts in perspectives among some European nations regarding the recognition of Palestinian statehood. “It looks very complicated… but we have a tremendous amount of help and support, globally speaking,” he asserted, maintaining hope that the two-state solution can be realized despite the challenges ahead.

In summary, Riyad Mansour’s insights reflect a critical juncture in the pursuit of Palestinian statehood, underscoring the importance of international cooperation, accountability, and humanitarian support in the ongoing struggle for peace and justice in the region.