In a groundbreaking diplomatic development, Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) engaged in a telephone conversation, discussing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. This marked their first interaction since the reestablishment of diplomatic ties between Tehran and Riyadh. The leaders emphasized the urgent need to halt war crimes against Palestine, as conveyed by Mohammad Jamshidi, Iranian presidential political affairs aide.
During the conversation, both leaders underscored the significance of Islamic unity and expressed concerns over the actions of the Israeli regime, coupled with perceived support from the United States, which they believe could lead to destructive insecurity in the region.
Crown Prince MBS highlighted the imperative of upholding the principles of international humanitarian law. He also conveyed deep concern for the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and its impact on civilians. Saudi state news agency SPA reported that he emphasized Saudi Arabia’s active efforts to engage with international and regional parties to curb the escalating conflict.
The ongoing violence has resulted in substantial casualties, with over 1,200 Palestinians in Gaza and 1,300 individuals in Israel reported killed, according to Palestinian and Israeli officials.
The resumption of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran in March, facilitated by China, signifies a pivotal shift in the geopolitical landscape. This reconciliation marked the conclusion of a seven-year period of hostility. Riyadh had severed ties with Tehran in 2016 following the invasion of Saudi diplomatic posts in Iran by protesters, triggered by Saudi Arabia’s execution of a prominent Shia scholar.
The conversation between Iran’s President Raisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscores the potential for a renewed diplomatic approach to address the Israel-Hamas conflict. It reflects the evolving dynamics in the region following their diplomatic reconciliation.