Saudi Cabinet Convenes in Riyadh to Address National and Regional Priorities
In a significant session presided over by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Saudi Cabinet assembled in Riyadh to deliberate on two critical fronts: the Kingdom's imminent Founding Day festivities and pressing regional geopolitical developments, notably a firm rejection of contentious Israeli land policies in the occupied West Bank. The discussions vividly highlighted Saudi Arabia's dual commitment to celebrating its rich historical legacy while steadfastly advocating for Palestinian rights and a peaceful, equitable resolution to enduring conflicts.
Founding Day: A Celebration of Historical Pride and National Identity
The Cabinet underscored that Founding Day, scheduled for February 22, serves as a profound expression of historical pride in the nearly three-century journey of the Saudi state. This legacy traces back to its origins with Imam Muhammad bin Saud and extends to its contemporary stature as a pivotal leader in regional and global affairs. Officials emphasized that the commemoration embodies core foundational values such as justice, unity, and development, while also acknowledging the Kingdom's remarkable economic, cultural, and social advancements under the transformative Vision 2030 initiative.
Established by royal decree in 2022, Founding Day marks the establishment of the first Saudi polity in 1727 CE (1139 AH) by Imam Muhammad bin Saud, symbolizing the inception of Saudi statehood. Observed annually on February 22, the holiday represents historical continuity and national pride, rooted in centuries of governance, peace, and growth. During the Cabinet session, ministers reaffirmed the importance of this milestone celebration and highlighted recent achievements, including record participation in Hajj and Umrah seasons, and attracting 19.5 million international visitors in 2025. These accomplishments reflect Saudi Arabia's expanding role as a global hub for spiritual engagement, tourism, and cultural diplomacy.
Strong Condemnation of Israeli Land Policies in the West Bank
In a robust political statement, the Saudi Cabinet issued a categorical rejection of recent Israeli decisions to classify land in the occupied West Bank as "state land" and to initiate new land registration processes for the first time since 1967. These moves have provoked widespread regional criticism. The Cabinet reiterated its firm opposition, asserting that such measures undermine peace efforts and violate the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
Saudi leaders stressed that these unilateral actions contravene international law, including relevant United Nations resolutions, and jeopardize prospects for establishing an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. This stance aligns with joint statements from Gulf and broader Arab partners, who have collectively condemned Israel's actions and called for respect for Palestinian rights and territorial integrity.
The Cabinet's commentary on Israeli land policies mirrors broader diplomatic trends across the Middle East. Earlier this week, several Arab and Islamic states, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, Qatar, Egypt, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Turkey, issued a joint repudiation of similar Israeli maneuvers. They emphasized that such steps threaten the viability of a two-state solution and breach longstanding international norms.
Domestic Initiatives and Regional Leadership
Beyond Founding Day, the Cabinet reviewed domestic achievements and social initiatives aimed at fortifying national identity and cohesion. The session spotlighted ongoing efforts such as the sixth National Campaign for Charitable Work, which exemplifies Saudi Arabia's focus on social solidarity and community support.
Officials also noted the Kingdom's growing involvement in cultural and economic spheres, reinforcing its Vision 2030 ambitions to diversify the economy, enhance social well-being, and project Saudi influence globally. This strategic vision prioritizes not only economic modernization but also a deep engagement with heritage and collective memory, anchoring national celebrations like Founding Day in a narrative of long-term resilience and leadership.
Saudi Arabia's position emerges amid wider regional engagement on security, stability, and cooperation. Recent government discussions have also addressed concerns ranging from Yemen's humanitarian crisis and peacebuilding efforts to international diplomatic ties, reflecting Riyadh's traditional role as both a regional leader and a key interlocutor in broader Arab political discourse.
Balancing Heritage, Domestic Renewal, and Regional Diplomacy
The Cabinet's dual focus on Founding Day and regional political developments underscores two central themes in Saudi policymaking. By highlighting Founding Day and its nearly 300-year legacy, Saudi leaders are reinforcing national identity during a period of rapid transformation. Simultaneously, the unequivocal rejection of controversial Israeli land actions reaffirms Riyadh's ongoing support for Palestinian rights and international law, a message that resonates with broader Arab diplomatic endeavors. Together, these elements illustrate how Saudi Arabia is adeptly balancing heritage, domestic renewal, and regional leadership within a complex geopolitical landscape.
