Secretary of State Marco Rubio met today with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Washington, D.C., as part of efforts to strengthen regional security and cooperation. The Secretary expressed thanks for Saudi Arabia's efforts to facilitate peace between Russia and Ukraine, increase economic and defense cooperation, eliminate the Houthi threat to the region, and restore freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.
The two officials discussed diplomatic efforts in Gaza to release hostages and work towards a durable ceasefire in which Hamas is completely disarmed and disempowered. They also agreed that the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces must return to peace talks, protect civilians, open humanitarian corridors, and return to civilian governance.
Rubio and Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Saudi relationship, committing to explore ways to further strengthen their partnership. The meeting marked a significant step in bolstering cooperation between the two countries on regional security issues.
The discussion highlighted the shared interests of the United States and Saudi Arabia in promoting stability and peace in the Middle East. By working together, both nations aim to address pressing regional challenges and advance their common goals.