In an “unusual and clear” message from Saudi Arabia, which Tel Aviv considered to be addressed to it, Riyadh confirmed that it wants the Palestinian Authority to assume power there in the Gaza Strip and believes it is capable of doing so.

The i24News website stated that while the battles continue in the Gaza Strip, attention is turning to the “next day” after the war, and in light of this, Saudi Arabia sent an “unusual and clear” message that the Kingdom wants the Palestinian Authority to assume power there.

The website indicated that Riyadh “believes that it (the authority) is capable of doing so.” Through this message, Riyadh indicates to Israel that they are closely monitoring everything that is happening and expect it to take action.

Yesterday, Friday, the Saudi Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan, made a public statement, in a manner that we had not seen before since the beginning of the war in Gaza, and conveyed in a firm voice the Kingdom’s position regarding future control of the Strip. He said during a press conference: “The Palestinian Authority is capable of managing Gaza. Everyone knows its ability and strength to manage the West Bank, and it did a wonderful job despite the challenges,” according to the Israeli website.

He added: "There is no justification for not calling for a ceasefire in Gaza," adding, "If there is a path to a Palestinian state, the Palestinian Authority is more than capable of providing it with the necessary powers."

In light of the statements made by the Saudi Foreign Minister, a Saudi official close to the Royal Palace told N12 on Saturday and confirmed that “Saudi Arabia and the United States are pressing for the Palestinian Authority to take control in terms of sovereignty and security in Gaza after the war. Saudi Arabia is open to dialogue but is committed to the two states solution.”