Saudi Arabia Backs Gaza Disarmament Agreement Announced by Trump

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Aug 1, 2026 ALN: Saudi Arabia welcomed the historic agreement on the disarmament of the Gaza Strip announced by US President Donald Trump, praising his leadership and commitment in securing what it described as a landmark achievement. This announcement marks a significant moment in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a long-standing issue that has seen numerous attempts at resolution over the decades. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is not merely a territorial dispute; it encompasses deep historical, religious, and cultural dimensions that have shaped the identities and aspirations of both peoples.

The Gaza Strip, a small territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, has been a focal point of this conflict, particularly since Hamas took control in 2007. This change in governance has led to a series of violent confrontations with Israel, contributing to a cycle of retaliation and suffering. The region has witnessed repeated escalations of violence, resulting in significant humanitarian crises and loss of life. The disarmament agreement is viewed as a potential turning point in addressing these longstanding issues, offering a glimmer of hope for stability in a region plagued by conflict.

In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also expressed appreciation to Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye, the United States, the Peace Council, and all partners whose sustained efforts contributed to reaching the agreement. The involvement of multiple nations in this process underscores the complexity of the situation in Gaza and the necessity for a collaborative approach to achieve lasting peace. Egypt has historically played a mediating role between Israel and Hamas, while Qatar has provided financial support to Gaza, and Türkiye has been vocal in advocating for Palestinian rights. The collaboration among these nations highlights the intricate web of regional politics that affects the peace process.

The Kingdom reaffirmed its full commitment to implementing the comprehensive peace plan endorsed by the U.N. Security Council in Resolution 2803, in coordination with regional and international partners. This resolution emphasizes the need for a negotiated settlement that respects the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians. The commitment from Saudi Arabia indicates its desire to play a more active role in promoting peace in the region, reflecting a shift in its foreign policy that seeks to balance relations with Western nations and its Arab neighbors. This shift is significant, as Saudi Arabia has traditionally been viewed as a conservative player in Middle Eastern geopolitics, often prioritizing its national interests over broader regional stability.

Saudi Arabia stressed the importance of carrying out all agreed phases within a defined timetable in a credible, final, and irreversible manner. This insistence on a structured timeline highlights the urgency of addressing the humanitarian needs in Gaza and the political aspirations of the Palestinian people. Historical precedents have shown that delays in implementation can lead to renewed tensions and violence, making adherence to a clear schedule critical for the success of any peace initiative. The urgency is compounded by the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where the blockade and intermittent conflicts have created a humanitarian crisis that demands immediate attention.

The Kingdom underscored the need for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, the deployment of an international stabilization force, and the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian assistance and reconstruction support to the Palestinian people. The call for an international force reflects concerns over security in the region and the necessity for a neutral party to oversee the transition and maintain order. Humanitarian assistance is particularly crucial, given the dire conditions in Gaza, where access to basic necessities such as clean water, medical supplies, and food has been severely restricted due to the ongoing blockade and conflict. The international community's role in facilitating humanitarian aid is vital, as it not only addresses immediate needs but also helps build trust among the parties involved in the peace process.

The ministry also reaffirmed that, in line with U.N. Security Council Resolution 2803, the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza and the preservation of the unity of the occupied Palestinian territories are essential to the successful implementation of the comprehensive peace plan and to achieving lasting peace and stability. The Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank, has been largely sidelined in Gaza since the Hamas takeover. Its re-establishment in Gaza is seen as vital for a unified Palestinian front in negotiations and governance. The division between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority has long been a barrier to a cohesive Palestinian strategy in peace talks, and resolving this internal conflict is critical for any meaningful progress.

Saudi Arabia stressed that the agreement should serve as the starting point for a comprehensive political process leading to the full implementation of the peace plan and guaranteeing the Palestinian people's inalienable rights, foremost among them the right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state. The emphasis on self-determination is a key element of international law and is crucial for any sustainable peace agreement. It reflects the aspirations of the Palestinian people for sovereignty and recognition on the global stage. Achieving this goal is not only about political recognition but also about the dignity and rights of the Palestinian people, which have been a focal point of their struggle.

Furthermore, enabling peaceful coexistence between the State of Palestine and Israel based on mutual recognition is essential. This mutual recognition is a cornerstone of any lasting peace, as it acknowledges the legitimacy of both parties' claims and aspirations. The path to coexistence is fraught with challenges, including deep-seated mistrust, historical grievances, and differing narratives about the conflict. Both sides will need to engage in difficult conversations and compromise to build a foundation for lasting peace. The role of external mediators and facilitators will be crucial in guiding these discussions and ensuring that they remain constructive.

Saudi Arabia reiterated that a just and lasting peace can only be achieved through a comprehensive political settlement that ends the conflict and lays the foundation for security, stability, and shared prosperity across the region. The broader implications of this agreement extend beyond the immediate Israeli-Palestinian context, as stability in Gaza could influence regional dynamics, including relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors, and potentially pave the way for greater cooperation in areas such as trade, security, and cultural exchange. A successful peace agreement could lead to a ripple effect, encouraging other Arab nations to normalize relations with Israel, similar to the Abraham Accords, which saw several Arab states establish formal ties with Israel in recent years.

In conclusion, the endorsement of the disarmament agreement by Saudi Arabia reflects a significant diplomatic effort to address the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As the situation unfolds, the commitment of regional and international partners will be crucial in ensuring that this agreement translates into tangible benefits for the people of Gaza and the broader region. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for future peace efforts, underscoring the importance of collaboration, dialogue, and a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that have perpetuated the conflict for so long. The eyes of the world will be watching closely as this agreement takes shape, and the hope is that it will lead to a new chapter in the quest for peace in the Middle East.