Saudi Arabia has named a non-resident ambassador for the Palestinian Territories who will also serve as consul general in Jerusalem. This announcement comes amidst speculation about potential future ties with Israel. Nayef al-Sudairi, the current ambassador to Jordan, is set to take on the role, as confirmed by a social media post from the Saudi embassy in Amman and a Saudi foreign ministry official.
This appointment reflects the desire of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to strengthen relations with the State of Palestine and provide formal support in all areas. The Saudi state-affiliated Al-Ekhbariya channel broadcast a video of Sudairi stating the importance of this step.
Traditionally, Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Amman has handled the file for the Palestinian Territories. It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia does not recognize Israel and did not join the 2020 US-brokered Abraham Accords that led to Israel establishing ties with the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.
However, during US President Joe Biden’s Middle East tour last year, the Saudi civil aviation authority announced the lifting of overflight restrictions on all carriers, enabling Israeli planes to use Saudi airspace. The kingdom clarified at the time that this move was not a precursor to any further steps towards normalization.
While Riyadh has consistently maintained the Arab League’s position of not establishing official ties with Israel until the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is resolved, recent talks between Saudi Arabia and the US indicate potential progress towards normalization. These talks have covered Saudi conditions, such as security guarantees and assistance with a civilian nuclear program.
The appointment of Sudairi as the ambassador for the Palestinian Territories was welcomed by Majdi al-Khaldi, Palestinian presidential adviser for diplomatic affairs. He stated that it would contribute to strengthening the strong relations between the two countries and peoples.
The move also signals Saudi Arabia’s recognition of the state of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital. A spokesman for the Israeli foreign ministry did not provide immediate comment but referred to recent statements by Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, suggesting that peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia is a matter of time.
This appointment offers insight into potential diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, as it establishes a Saudi ambassador to Palestine with a file for Israel. It signifies Saudi Arabia’s seriousness in demanding Israeli concessions. Additionally, Sudairi’s appointment demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s support for the Palestinian Authority, not only diplomatically but also through potential financial assistance to alleviate their dire financial situation.