Global Condemnation of Netanyahu's Remarks on Palestinian Statehood and Saudi Arabia
Widespread criticism from the Arab and Islamic communities follows Israeli Prime Minister's comments suggesting Saudi territory for a Palestinian state.
Following comments made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the establishment of a Palestinian state on Saudi Arabian territory, significant backlash has emerged from various Arab and Islamic entities.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which includes 57 member states, labeled Netanyahu's remarks as "unacceptable and irresponsible," stating that they constitute an incitement against Saudi Arabia and infringe on its sovereignty.
The OIC called for adherence to international law and the United Nations Charter, highlighting the importance of the Palestinian people's historic rights.
In a statement, OIC representatives emphasized that the remarks reflected a denial of the Palestinian people's rights, such as their right to return and self-determination.
They categorically rejected any attempts to displace Palestinians, denouncing such actions as ethnic cleansing and a violation of international law.
The OIC reiterated the necessity for international initiatives to end Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and emphasized that East Jerusalem should be recognized as the capital of a future Palestinian state.
The Secretary General of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, condemned Netanyahu's assertions regarding the transfer of Palestinians to Saudi Arabia, describing them as detached from reality.
He affirmed that a Palestinian state must be established based on the land occupied as of 1967, also asserting East Jerusalem's capital status.
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Jasem Albudaiwi joined in the denunciation, stating that Netanyahu's provocative statements underscore a disregard for international laws and the sovereignty of nations.
Albudaiwi reaffirmed support for the Palestinian people's legitimate rights and emphasized respect for territory occupied since June 1967.
The Arab Parliament's Speaker, Mohammed Ahmed Al-Yamahi, warned that such rhetoric could exacerbate regional conflicts and undermine security, framing it as a breach of international norms.
Similarly, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and condemned the remarks as irresponsible, reiterating the Kingdom’s role in supporting Palestinian rights.
Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned the statements as unacceptable and a violation of Saudi sovereignty, linking stability in Saudi Arabia with broader regional security.
Jordan similarly condemned the remarks, labeling them as provocative and a clear violation of international law.
UAE officials strongly rejected the Israeli statements, calling them a violation of international norms, while the Sultanate of Oman expressed its solidarity with Saudi Arabia.
Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Iraq issued similar statements of condemnation, emphasizing their support for Saudi sovereignty and the Palestinian cause.
Each emphasized that a comprehensive peace can only be achieved by respecting the rights of the Palestinian people and establishing their state within the legally recognized borders.
The international community has been urged to respond decisively to these Israeli provocations, with many calling for accountability for ongoing actions that endanger regional stability.