Why it matters:
The remarks from a senior Saudi insider underscore a growing recognition across the region—even within states previously aligned with U.S.-Israeli narratives—that Israel’s ongoing conflicts and repeated attacks on neighboring countries are the primary drivers of regional instability.
The big picture:
Speaking at the Middle East and Africa Forum at the Milken Institute, al-Faisal said Israel’s continuous aggression against Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria proves it behaves as “a weight unto itself.”
He argued that Washington must “contain” Israel, as the main source of regional crises.
His comments reflect widening frustration in Arab states over Israel’s attacks and its refusal to engage in meaningful peace efforts.
What he’s saying:
Prince Turki al-Faisal said that Israel is without doubt the source of the problems, and the United States must restrain it.
He added that near-daily bombings in Syria, continued assaults on Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, and attacks in Lebanon — supposedly under a ceasefire — show that Israel is not a messenger of peace.
Referring to Israel’s attack in Doha during ceasefire discussions, he called the strikes on Hamas representatives during negotiations a “warning signal,” saying the incident proves the PGCC must strengthen collective defense.
Go deeper:
The remarks echo a broader shift among Arab political figures who increasingly name Israeli occupation and US backing as root causes of regional insecurity.
Mojtaba Darabi - ahmad shirzadian
