Israeli President Isaac Herzog today deemed it important to continue cooperation between Israel and Saudi Arabia in order to establish relations between the two countries, which would mark “a victory over the actions” of Hamas, with Riyadh however saying that the priority it remains the end of the war in the Gaza Strip and the recognition of an independent Palestinian state.

“I honestly believe that a move towards establishing (including diplomatic relations) and making every possible effort is a very important historic opportunity,” Israel’s president told the Munich Security Conference, calling on all parties “to take advantage of this moment.”

However, also speaking from the Munich ConferenceSaudi Arabia’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, stated that the only path to security and stability in the Middle East, including Israel, it is through the establishment of a Palestinian state.

When asked on a panel at the Conference about establishing relations with Israel, Prince Faisal said the kingdom was currently focusing on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip war.

“We are focused on a ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and we are focused on the people of Gaza having access to humanitarian aid,” he said.

Saudi Arabia has repeatedly stated that it will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognized.

Meanwhile, the Israeli president, whose policy-making role is largely ceremonial, said he met with Qatar’s prime minister, who is trying to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza war. “I met with the prime minister of Qatar yesterday,” Herzog said, according to a statement from his office. “It was a good conversation. And I think he’s making great efforts…on this issue.”