Saudi Arabian Minister of Investment Khalid bin Abdulaziz al-Faleh indicated that discussions about normalizing relations with Israel continue even as tensions with Palestine persist. He framed the topic within the broader context of regional diplomacy, noting that such talks have occurred during high-level forums, including recent discussions at the Bloomberg New Economic Forum.
In his remarks, al-Faleh conveyed that progress in these talks remains intertwined with achieving a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian issue. He stressed that this matter was actively on the table and continues to be part of the agenda among the Kingdom’s leadership, underscoring how regional stability hinges on a lasting settlement for Palestine. His comments highlight Riyadh’s view that any potential normalization should be embedded in a comprehensive peace process that addresses the core claims and rights of the Palestinian people within the framework of a broader Middle East stabilisation effort.
The minister added that the ongoing and recent deadly events in the Gaza Strip and in Israel only reinforce Saudi Arabia’s stance: a durable solution to the Palestinian question is essential, and any normalization would be part of a larger regional strategy rather than a standalone move. This perspective aligns with the Kingdom’s emphasis on linking diplomatic progress to substantive improvements on the ground for Palestinians, alongside regional security assurances and broader economic collaboration in the Middle East.
Al-Faleh also dismissed the notion of using oil price mechanisms as a lever to end the conflict. He stated that Saudi Arabia’s objective is to advance peace through negotiations, not through market interventions. The emphasis remains on dialogue, mutual concessions, and credible guarantees that could sustain a peace process that is acceptable to all parties involved, while ensuring global energy markets remain stable and predictable for consuming nations.
Earlier reporting from Bloomberg noted that Riyadh does not intend to tie discussions about oil price movements to a Gaza ceasefire, reinforcing the position that energy policy and diplomatic strategy should be kept separate when addressing urgent humanitarian and security concerns. Such reporting reflects the Kingdom’s careful approach to balancing economic interests with long-standing political objectives in the region.
There have been voices from various regional actors, including Hamas, who have criticized Western approaches to the Arab world. They argue that a durable peace requires broader engagement and recognition of longstanding grievances. The dialogue about normalization continues in parallel with attempts to bridge gaps between Israel and the Palestinian leadership, aiming to forge a framework that could ultimately support a lasting solution for both sides and contribute to regional stability across the Middle East (Bloomberg).