Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman held a telephone conversation with US President Joe Biden and stressed the imperative for de-escalation in Gaza and a commitment to international humanitarian law in light of the current regional tensions.

The crown prince, expressing deep concern over the situation, underscored the necessity to halt the current escalation, preventing any further deterioration that could adversely affect the security and stability of the entire region.

As per Saudi Gazette, MBS emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of international law, particularly in protecting civilians and vital infrastructure.

President Biden, in turn, extended his appreciation to Crown Prince Salman for his efforts in reducing and containing escalation in the region.

The conversation came at a time when the Ministry of Health in Gaza said that at least 704 people have died in the last one day.

Mohammed Bin Salman affirmed Saudi Arabia's rejection of all forms of targeting civilians and infrastructure, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution to the crisis. He stressed the urgency of restoring peace and ensuring the Palestinian people's legitimate rights.

The diplomatic conversation also touched upon the vital need to lift the blockade on Gaza, a move seen as essential for addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The crown prince asserted that such measures are crucial for fostering a just and comprehensive peace, echoing a sentiment of peace and stability for the entire Middle East.

Palestine condemns Israel’s call for UN chief to resign

The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned Israel’s call for the UN Secretary-General to resign, describing it as an “unprovoked attack”.

In a post on X, the Palestinian ministry described Israel’s position as an “extension” of its “disrespect and lack of commitment” to the United Nations, its Charter, and UN resolutions regarding Palestine.

Israel’s UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan told reporters earlier: “I think that the Secretary-General must resign,” after Guterres delivered a speech saying there had been “clear violations of international humanitarian law” in Gaza.