RIYADH: The Palestinian cause is a central focus of Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy due to the deep-rooted ties between people in the two regions.

Palestinians in Saudi Arabia have long acknowledged the Kingdom’s significant diplomatic and humanitarian role in aiding Palestinians, and never more today amid the ongoing crisis.

In response to the escalation of violence and attacks on Gaza, particularly following Israel’s reaction to the Hamas assault on Oct. 7, Saudi Arabia ramped up its efforts to try and halt the aggression. 

Sobhi Al-Haddad, a 69-year-old resident of Saudi Arabia since 1957 with numerous relatives in Gaza, some of whom were casualties in the recent strikes, told Arab News about the Kingdom’s consistent support for Arab nations in crises, and particularly its backing of the Palestinian cause.

Al-Haddad said: “The Kingdom’s position has always been clear throughout history.

“It supports all Arab countries in all the crises they suffer from, and at the heart of them is the Palestinian cause. The Kingdom tries to protect the interests of the Palestinians and preserve their legitimate rights.”

Saudi Arabia has actively sought to resolve the conflict, while shielding civilians from atrocities. The Kingdom, through the Saudi aid agency KSrelief, has dispatched 4,500 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza to help the situation.

Al-Haddad spoke of the efforts of the Saudi leadership, including King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to support the Palestinian people.

Saudi Arabia has also initiated a national fundraising campaign through the Sahem platform of KSrelief, underlining its long-standing commitment to Palestinian welfare during crises.

Al-Haddad added: “Saudi efforts do not stop with diplomatic discussions with world leaders.

“It has extended support to the Palestinians in the ordeal they have been exposed to by launching a national fundraising campaign through the Sahem platform.

“In my name and on behalf of my Palestinian brothers, I extend the highest expressions of thanks, appreciation, and gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Highness the Crown Prince for this noble humanitarian initiative, and the unlimited political and diplomatic support for the Palestinian cause.”

In the complex landscape of Middle Eastern geopolitics, the Kingdom’s unwavering support for Palestine stands out and is woven deeply into the region’s narrative.

This support, which transcends the realms of diplomatic engagement, is anchored in a shared heritage and cultural connections. Over the years, this bond has matured into a diverse and robust support system, stretching from the streets of Riyadh to the conflict-ridden areas of Gaza and the West Bank.

Saudi Arabia’s involvement goes beyond the realms of financial and humanitarian assistance. The Kingdom has leveraged its diplomatic influence to champion the rights of Palestinians and has long been a consistent advocate for peace, actively promoting initiatives and dialogue aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

A key aspect of its support has been its backing for the establishment of a Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Through these efforts, Saudi Arabia has played a pivotal role in molding global perspectives and drawing attention to the Palestinians’ plight.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan addressed the issue of Palestinian refugees on Nov. 29, emphasizing that the solution lies not in relocation but in stopping violence, lifting blockades, and facilitating humanitarian aid to Palestine.

He reiterated that Palestinians should live securely and with dignity on their land, a stance that Saudi Arabia firmly advocates.

He said: “The weight has to be lifted, but it is not to be lifted by the Arab world. It is to be lifted by removing that weight, and that is very easy: by stopping the killing, by stopping the blockade, and by allowing enough humanitarian aid to go in to support Palestine.”

Saudi Arabia was among 153 nations advocating for an immediate ceasefire earlier this month. Prince Faisal also said Palestinians should not be compelled to leave their homeland, affirming their right to their territory.

He added: “The Palestinians do not want to leave their land, and we are not going to encourage them or force them to leave their land, and we’re not going to work with anyone who has that agenda.”

Basel Abdulaziz, 63, a resident of Saudi Arabia with family in Gaza, has acknowledged the Kingdom’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.

He speaks of Saudi Arabia’s support extending beyond financial aid to include moral and political backing at international forums, all the while keeping the Palestinian issue at the forefront of the world’s conscience.