Saudi Arabia criticizes Israel for preventing Arab ministers from visiting the West Bank, labeling the action as extremism.

Foreign ministers from Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates had intended to visit the occupied West Bank to discuss advancements in Palestinian statehood and explore pathways to ending the current conflict in Gaza. However, this diplomatic mission faced an obstacle when Israel blocked the proposed visit, prompting strong reactions from the Saudi government.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud voiced the kingdom’s concerns during a joint press conference held in Jordan’s capital, Amman, alongside his counterparts from Jordan, Egypt, and Bahrain. He stated that Israel’s refusal to allow the delegation’s entry exemplified extremism and was a clear rejection of peace efforts. This refusal, according to Prince Faisal, would only intensify diplomatic endeavors within the international community to counteract such attitudes and push for a resolution to the ongoing crisis.

The planned visit was significant as it was to feature discussions with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas amid a period of heightened tensions and violence in Gaza. The bloc of Arab nations aimed to reinvigorate support for Palestinian diplomacy and assert their commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state, particularly in light of Israel’s ongoing operations that have raised humanitarian concerns.

Israel’s control over West Bank airspace and borders led to their decision not to approve the delegation’s entrance, which raised alarms among Arab leaders. Israeli officials suggested that the Palestinian Authority’s refusal to condemn previous violence was a factor in their decision to obstruct the visit, suggesting that the planned discussions could fuel further tensions.

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi criticized the ban on the trip, labeling it as a hindrance to achieving a fair and comprehensive settlement between Arabs and Israelis. The cancellation underscores the challenges faced by Arab nations striving to engage constructively with Palestinian representatives during these tumultuous times.

Upcoming discussions, including an international conference scheduled to be co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia in New York from June 17 to 20, aim to address the urgent matters surrounding Palestinian statehood. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty highlighted that the conference is expected to focus on security arrangements post-ceasefire in Gaza and strategies that safeguard the Palestinian population from any displacement.

The growing calls for a two-state solution from the United Nations and various European countries reflect an ongoing global commitment to finding a resolution that recognizes the rights and aspirations of Palestinians alongside those of Israelis, fostering a peaceful coexistence that benefits the entire region.

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