Saudi Gazette report

MADRID — Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, urged European countries to more strongly condemn Israel's actions and consider stricter measures, such as imposing sanctions for human rights violations in Palestine.

He made these remarks during a dialogue session titled "Wars and Shadow Wars: What are Europe's Options in the Middle East?" during the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) meetings in the Spanish capital Madrid on Thursday.

The session discussed the latest developments in the tragic situation in the Gaza Strip and the importance of continuing international efforts to reach an immediate ceasefire and allow more humanitarian aid to enter the besieged territory.

The Saudi minister emphasized that the crisis in Gaza impacts not only the Palestinian cause but the entire region, contributing to increased tension and escalation, as seen in southern Lebanon.

Prince Faisal stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire, noting that while the international community largely supports a two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, many stand idle by as actions, such as Israel's continued settlement expansion, undermine this goal.

He highlighted the importance of European efforts, including Spain's, in supporting the peace process and pushing a two-state solution.

He called for European countries to condemn Israel's non-compliance with its commitments and to take stronger steps, including sanctions, to support Palestinian self-determination and the establishment of a viable, independent and internationally recognized state.

Additionally, Prince Faisal addressed the situation in Yemen, emphasizing the ongoing support for political dialogue and the need to improve the difficult economic conditions in the country.