At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Israeli President Isaac Herzog highlighted the importance of Israel normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia for peace in the region and for ending hostilities in Gaza.
He pointed out that such ties are vital and will take time to solidify. Saudi Arabia’s acknowledgment of Israel's right to peace signals a possible shift toward recognition contingent on Palestinian statehood.
US Secretary Antony Blinken supported a two-state solution to enhance Israel's security and its regional relations. Despite this, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration is currently against a two-state approach.
Herzog argues the Israeli public's trust in the peace process wanes due to safety concerns, especially after recent violence from Hamas.
Herzog also addressed the broader global repercussions of Hamas’ actions, labeling them as a part of a threat emanating from Iran. Conflicts involving Iran have escalated in the region, with implications for international trade and security.
Iran’s foreign minister justified attacks in Iraq and Pakistan as self-defense, while condemning Israel’s actions against Hamas.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani voiced disappointment with the global response to the Gaza war and discussed Iraq's delicate stance between the US and Iran. Sudani also called for the withdrawal of US-led forces from Iraq.
The Israeli and Iraqi leaders were key speakers on a busy day at Davos, where various topics, including climate change and AI, were discussed.
UN Secretary-General
António Guterres noted the potential and challenges of AI, while a panel delved into Ukraine's conflict, with Polish President Andrzej Duda urging the use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction.
British Foreign Secretary David Cameron advocated for the deployment of Western economic power to support Ukraine. Lastly, Doug Emhoff, the spouse of US Vice President Kamala Harris, was scheduled to address hate crimes, including antisemitism and Islamophobia.