Saudi Arabia stressed that the region is undergoing a profound strategic transformation that requires new approaches to security and stability, emphasizing that the Palestinian cause remains central to any serious vision for regional security. The remarks came during the Gulf-Mediterranean Summit, titled Strategic Dialogue for Stability and Economic Cooperation, held in the Italian capital, Rome, with the participation of officials, diplomats, and experts from the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Middle East, and Europe. Representing the Kingdom, Minister Plenipotentiary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Manal Radwan said the region's strategic restructuring requires comprehensive frameworks for dialogue, cooperation, and collective security rather than policies based on hegemony or military force alone. Radwan warned that the continued humanitarian deterioration in the Gaza Strip, the expansion of Israeli settlements and annexation efforts in the West Bank, and the erosion of final status issues, foremost among them Jerusalem, undermine prospects for both regional and international stability. She stressed that the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them the right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state, must form the foundation of any future political process. She added that ending the occupation and holding Israel accountable for its violations are essential prerequisites for achieving a just peace and sustainable regional security. Radwan also underscored the importance of respecting state sovereignty, refraining from interference in the internal affairs of other countries, and ending attempts to weaken or undermine state institutions. She further highlighted the need to safeguard freedom of navigation, the security of maritime routes, and global supply chains. The Saudi official also called for strengthening the Gulf-European partnership to address shared challenges in energy, the digital economy, and strategic infrastructure. Concluding her participation, Radwan said that meaningful progress requires coordinated collective action and a cohesive regional and international partnership capable of addressing the root causes of crises while advancing security, stability, and development across the region.
