Saudi appoints its first ambassador to Palestine

RIYADH: In a significant development, Saudi Arabia has appointed its first non-residential ambassador to Palestine, Nayef al-Sudairi, even as the kingdom contemplates establishing formal diplomatic ties with Israel.

Al-Sudairi, who currently serves as the Saudi ambassador to Jordan, will also hold the position of consul general in Jerusalem.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s diplomatic adviser, Majdi al-Khalidi, received the copy of Ambassador al-Sudairi’s credentials. Al-Khalidi emphasized the importance of this step in strengthening the strong brotherly relations between the two countries and peoples.

Al-Sudairi echoed this sentiment, saying that his appointment reflects the desire of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to enhance relations with the State of Palestine and formalize cooperation in various domains.

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According to Al Jazeera, the move hints at the possibility of establishing an official Saudi representation office in the occupied West Bank, marking a diplomatic advancement in the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the Palestinian Territories. The step comes amid ongoing discussions to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, which the United States has been advocating.

Saudi officials uphold the Arab League’s stance of not establishing ties with Israel until the Palestinian conflict is resolved. However, recent talks between Riyadh and Washington have delved into Saudi conditions for potential normalization, including security assurances and assistance with a civilian nuclear program.

This move is an important indicator of potential future diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia, Palestine, and Israel. It reflects the complexities and dynamics of the evolving Middle East landscape.