Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, has condemned Israel’s continued military operations in the West Bank and Gaza, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

He made the remarks during a press conference held in Rome on Thursday, as part of an official visit to Italy.

Echoing recent comments by Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, Prince Faisal said: "We agree with Italy on the importance of quickly stopping the war in Gaza."

"The two-state solution is the only path to peace in the region," Prince Faisal added, highlighting the necessity of establishing a political process in Gaza as a foundation for lasting stability.

Addressing broader geopolitical concerns, the Saudi minister also commented on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He affirmed the Kingdom’s support for all efforts aimed at facilitating dialogue and bringing about a peaceful resolution.

Prince Faisal’s visit to Rome follows Prime Minister Meloni’s official trip to Saudi Arabia eight months earlier, during which bilateral agreements worth $10 billion were signed. These accords are part of a broader initiative to strengthen trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

– UN chief condemns Israeli attack on Gaza's Nasser Hospital –

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has described the Israeli attack on Nasser Hospital in Gaza as "unconscionable" and warned that any further expansion of military operations in Gaza City would result in devastating humanitarian consequences.

Guterres expressed deep concern over the deteriorating conditions in Gaza. "Gaza is full of rubble and bodies," he said, calling the destruction unprecedented.

The secretary-general also warned against Israel’s reported intention to seize full military control over the territory, describing such a move as extremely dangerous. He criticised the ongoing blockade, stating: ‘No war has ever seen civilians deliberately starved.’

Guterres declared the famine in Gaza a present and undeniable reality, characterising the situation as a "major catastrophe".