Saudi Arabia does not formally recognize the State of Palestine as of October 26, 2023. However, it strongly supports the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Saudi Arabia's Position on Palestine
While formal diplomatic recognition hasn't been extended, Saudi Arabia is a staunch advocate for Palestinian statehood based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This position reflects a long-standing commitment to Palestinian self-determination and ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
- Support for Palestinian Statehood: Saudi Arabia consistently calls for a two-state solution that allows Palestinians to establish an independent and sovereign state.
- Financial and Political Support: The Kingdom has historically provided significant financial aid and political backing to the Palestinian cause.
- Emphasis on Pre-1967 Borders: A key aspect of Saudi Arabia's stance is the insistence on the 1967 borders as the basis for a future Palestinian state, including East Jerusalem as its capital.
- Normalization Considerations: Discussions regarding normalization of relations with Israel are often linked to progress on the Palestinian issue. Saudi Arabia has indicated that significant advancement toward a two-state solution is crucial for any normalization agreement.
Why No Formal Recognition?
The lack of formal recognition despite strong support for Palestinian statehood is likely tied to a complex interplay of factors, including:
- Strategic Considerations: Saudi Arabia's foreign policy decisions are influenced by regional dynamics and its strategic interests, including its relationship with the United States and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
- Negotiating Leverage: Retaining formal recognition as a potential incentive for Israel to make concessions in peace negotiations with the Palestinians.
- Regional Stability: A desire to see a stable and lasting resolution to the conflict before formalizing recognition.
In conclusion, although Saudi Arabia does not formally recognize Palestine as a state, it provides substantial political and financial support for the creation of a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
