Israel Blocks Saudi Delegation's Historic West Bank Visit

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan was set to lead a historic delegation of Arab foreign ministers to Ramallah, marking what would have been the highest-level Saudi visit to the West Bank since 1967. The visit, backed by the Palestinian Authority, aimed to demonstrate Arab unity for the Palestinian cause and push for statehood amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israeli settlement expansion. However, Israel blocked the delegation’s entry, citing security concerns and opposition to moves supporting Palestinian statehood. This action has further strained Israel’s relations with Arab states, who are intensifying diplomatic pressure and supporting Palestinian Authority reforms. The planned visit preceded an international conference at the UN, co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and France, focused on reviving the two-state solution, with France considering recognition of Palestinian statehood. The incident underscores growing Arab frustration with Israel and shifting regional diplomatic dynamics.