Prince Turki al-Faisal, Saudi Arabia’s former intelligence chief, has reiterated that the kingdom will only consider normalizing diplomatic relations with Israel if certain conditions are satisfied, reflecting enduring diplomatic caution in Riyadh’s approach to the issue.

Speaking in recent interviews, the veteran Saudi statesman emphasised that formal recognition and normalization depend on perceived policy changes from Israel that address the longstanding concerns of the Arab world.

The remarks occur amid wider regional discussions on a possible Saudi-Israeli diplomatic breakthrough that have been underway for several years but have slowed amid ongoing tensions over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Prince Turki pointed to the importance of progress on Palestinian statehood and respect for internationally recognised frameworks for peace, framing these elements as central to any future rapprochement.

His comments underline that Saudi public opinion and official policy remain closely tied to broader Arab concerns about a negotiated settlement and enduring stability in the region.

Public and diplomatic efforts to progress normalisation have included talks in recent years facilitated by the United States, with proposals linking a defence and civil nuclear agreement with Riyadh to parallel movements toward Middle East peace.

However, the outbreak of hostilities in Gaza in October 2023 and political resistance to a two-state solution within Israel’s governing coalition have complicated those initiatives.

Prince Turki’s reiterated stance aligns with Saudi Arabia’s official position, which remains rooted in the Arab Peace Initiative and emphasises that comprehensive peace — including an independent Palestinian state — is foundational to any formal ties with Israel.

Saudi leaders have nonetheless continued to engage in security and strategic dialogues with international partners, particularly on defence and economic cooperation.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has signalled openness to dialogue about future regional architecture that could include Israel, but Riyadh’s formal position remains contingent on substantive steps toward resolving the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The former intelligence chief’s comments reflect the kingdom’s careful diplomatic balancing act between maintaining regional leadership, supporting Palestinian aspirations, and exploring new strategic partnerships in a changing geopolitical landscape.