Egypt’s Strong Condemnation of Netanyahu’s Palestinian State…

Egypt has condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s suggestion of establishing a Palestinian state on Saudi land, deeming the remarks irresponsible and a violation of international norms. The Palestinian Liberation Organization also rebuked these claims, asserting Palestinian rights to their own state. Saudi Arabia, maintaining a firm stance on Palestinian statehood as a precondition for normalization with Israel, reiterated its commitment to these principles.

Egypt’s condemnation follows comments from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who suggested establishing a Palestinian state on Saudi land. During an interview with Channel 14, Netanyahu stated, “The Saudis can create a Palestinian state in Saudi Arabia; they have a lot of land over there.”

Cairo’s foreign ministry promptly criticized Netanyahu’s remarks, expressing strong disapproval without explicitly naming him. They denounced these statements as irresponsible and invoked a commitment to Saudi sovereignty, stressing that such discourse is a “red line” that should not be breached.

Furthermore, the statement from Egypt’s foreign ministry called Netanyahu’s remarks a “flagrant violation” of international law, asserting that they infringe on the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to secure their own state.

The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), represented by Hussein al-Sheikh, also condemned Netanyahu’s assertions. Sheikh emphasized that Palestine would only exist on its rightful land, reaffirming the unwavering support for Palestinian rights from Saudi Arabia.

Netanyahu, while in the United States, reiterated his opposition to any Palestinian state and referred to Gaza’s situation as indicative of the problems previously experienced. While discussing potential normalization with Saudi Arabia, he dismissed the kingdom’s condition of Palestinian statehood, projecting optimism about future peace

In response, Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry issued a robust reminder that its commitment to an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital remains steadfast.

British lawmakers criticized Netanyahu’s statements, with Labour MP Afzal Khan condemning any displacement of Palestinians, calling for a free homeland instead. Another Labour MP, Kim Johnson, described his proposals as “absurd and insulting”.

The recent comments by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu have stirred significant diplomatic tensions, particularly concerning the delicate dynamics between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the Palestinian territories. Previous efforts and discussions aimed at establishing peace in the region have focused heavily on Palestinian statehood, which remains a pivotal issue for Saudi normalization with Israel. Egypt’s vocal disapproval is indicative of its protective stance on regional sovereignty and the rights of the Palestinian people.

The escalating diplomatic conflict surrounding Netanyahu’s proposal underscores the sensitivity of discussions on Palestinian statehood and the implications for regional relationships. Egypt’s swift condemnation signals a commitment to uphold Saudi sovereignty and Palestinian rights, while international responses continue to critique Israeli approaches that threaten peace agreements. The situation remains precarious, necessitating careful dialogue and negotiation to foster an enduring resolution.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net