Saudi Arabia Welcomes Gaza Ceasefire Agreement, Calls for Lasting Peace

world January 16, 2025

TDT | Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially welcomed the recently brokered ceasefire agreement in Gaza, acknowledging the significant diplomatic efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and the United States in facilitating the deal. The Kingdom emphasized the critical need for adherence to the agreement to ensure the cessation of hostilities and a path toward lasting peace in the region.

Saudi Arabia’s Call for Justice and Withdrawal

In its statement, Saudi Arabia underscored the urgency of ending Israeli aggression in Gaza, calling for the complete withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from the Gaza Strip and all Palestinian and Arab territories. The Kingdom also stressed the necessity of ensuring that displaced individuals are allowed to return to their homes, a step viewed as fundamental to restoring stability and dignity to those affected by the conflict.

Addressing Root Causes of the Conflict

Highlighting the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination. The Kingdom reiterated its commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

This stance reflects Saudi Arabia's long-standing advocacy for a two-state solution as a foundation for peace and justice in the region.

Ceasefire Details Announced in Doha

During a press conference in Doha, the Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman, announced the ceasefire agreement. Sheikh Mohammed noted that the agreement, set to begin implementation this Sunday, will initially span 42 days.

As part of the first phase, the agreement includes the release of 33 Israeli detainees in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners. This prisoner exchange is seen as a critical confidence-building measure to foster goodwill between the parties involved.

Hope for a Permanent Resolution

Saudi Arabia expressed hope that this ceasefire would mark the beginning of the end to the ongoing violence that has ravaged Gaza. The Kingdom highlighted the devastating toll of the conflict, which has resulted in over 45,000 deaths and more than 100,000 injuries.

By emphasizing the importance of leveraging this agreement as a stepping stone, Saudi Arabia aims to galvanize international efforts toward a comprehensive resolution that addresses the region’s longstanding challenges and ensures the protection of Palestinian rights.

International Diplomacy at Work

The Kingdom’s response reflects a broader commitment by the international community to mediate and resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As mediators like Qatar, Egypt, and the United States continue their efforts, there is cautious optimism that this ceasefire could pave the way for broader agreements that prioritize peace, justice, and coexistence in the Middle East.