The Saudi ambassador to the UK has warned that the Middle East is facing its most significant risk of regional conflict since 1973. Speaking on Sky News’ “The World with Yalda Hakim,” Prince Khalid bin Bandar emphasized the need for “renewed efforts” to halt the violence.
He expressed his pessimism, stating, “I’d like to say I was optimistic, but it’s difficult to see where that optimism would come from.” He noted that conditions on the ground are deteriorating, suggesting we are closer to a regional war than we have been in decades.
The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict is central to these rising tensions, and both parties bear a responsibility to prevent escalation. “The Israeli-Palestinian issue impacts people globally in a way that few conflicts do,” Prince Khalid remarked. He highlighted the worldwide protests motivated by the situation, asserting that both Israelis and Palestinians have an obligation to consider their impact on the international community.
He warned that if the conflict spreads beyond its current borders, it could lead to broader regional and global consequences. “We must put renewed efforts into stopping the fighting… More of the international community needs to push harder,” he urged.
His remarks come as Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced a “new phase” in military action against Hezbollah, following the detonation of the group’s communication devices this week. Senior global figures, including the UN secretary-general, have cautioned that Israeli operations could signal a larger offensive in Lebanon.
Hezbollah has pledged to retaliate against the strikes that have already resulted in over 30 deaths and thousands of injuries. On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated that the US is evaluating how the situation in Lebanon may influence ceasefire negotiations in the ongoing Gaza conflict.
