Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has strongly criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza, calling it “genocide” during a summit of Muslim and Arab leaders. His statement marks one of the most direct condemnations by a Saudi official since the war’s outbreak.
Crown Prince’s Statement at Summit
During a high-level summit attended by key Muslim and Arab leaders, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made his stance clear. He accused Israel of committing “genocide” in Gaza, criticizing both its actions and the international community’s failure to stop the conflict.
In a rare alignment, the Saudi prince also condemned Israeli attacks on neighboring Lebanon and warned against any aggression toward Iran. His comments signal a bold public stance as Saudi Arabia and Iran, long-time rivals, show signs of easing tensions. The prince’s warning comes amid escalating violence in Gaza and concerns about broader regional instability.
International Community’s Failure Cited by Saudi Foreign Minister
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al-Saud added his voice to the criticism, stating that the international community has “failed” to bring an end to the conflict. He accused Israel of contributing to severe humanitarian issues in Gaza, including widespread starvation.
“Where the international community primarily has failed is ending the immediate conflict and putting an end to Israel’s aggression,” Prince Faisal said. His remarks underscore Saudi Arabia’s growing frustration with global inaction and highlight the devastating human toll of the conflict.
A War with High Civilian Casualties
The war in Gaza began after Hamas’s deadly incursion into southern Israel on October 7, 2023, in which over 1,200 Israelis were killed. Israel’s response aimed to dismantle Hamas, but Gaza has suffered extensive losses. The Hamas-run health ministry reports more than 43,400 casualties in Gaza, with close to 70% of verified victims being women and children, according to the UN Human Rights Office.
Ongoing Attacks on UN Facilities
The summit leaders also condemned Israel’s attacks on UN facilities and staff in Gaza, accusing Israel of disregarding international agreements. The Knesset recently passed a controversial bill to ban the UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and occupied East Jerusalem, citing concerns over alleged ties to Hamas. The move has raised alarms among UN officials and aid organizations, as it restricts UNRWA’s ability to deliver essential aid to Gaza.
Several Western allies, including the United States and the United Kingdom, expressed concerns that limiting UNRWA’s operations could worsen the humanitarian crisis.
Regional Leaders Call for Israeli Withdrawal
Joined by other summit leaders, Prince Mohammed called for Israel’s total withdrawal from Gaza and the West Bank. This demand has gained traction among Middle Eastern leaders who view an Israeli withdrawal as essential for long-term peace.
The issue of occupation and the future of Palestinian territories remains a cornerstone of regional tensions. Saudi Arabia and its allies have consistently voiced support for Palestinian sovereignty and oppose permanent Israeli control over occupied territories.
The Role of Donald Trump’s Possible Return to Office
In the backdrop of this summit, there is speculation around Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House. Gulf leaders maintain favorable relations with Trump and hope he can leverage his diplomatic influence to bring stability to the region. During his presidency, Trump supported Israel by recognizing Jerusalem as its capital and endorsing the annexation of the Golan Heights. At the same time, he brokered the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations.
Saudi newspapers echoed this sentiment, with editorials hailing a “new era of hope” and expressing optimism that Trump’s potential return could bring stability. However, Trump’s past actions remain controversial, particularly his support for Israel’s policies, which angered many in the Muslim world.
Summit Highlights Calls for Peace
The summit concluded with leaders urging international organizations to take immediate action to halt hostilities and address humanitarian needs in Gaza. Saudi Arabia and its allies stressed the importance of unified action to prevent further suffering and maintain peace.
Conclusion: A Divisive Conflict and Uncertain Future
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s forceful condemnation of Israel’s actions as “genocide” reflects the high-stakes tension in the region. The situation is delicate, as Gulf leaders navigate alliances and geopolitical interests. With Trump’s potential return to office and Saudi-Iranian relations on the mend, the Middle East faces a pivotal moment. The international community’s response to these calls for intervention will shape the path forward for Gaza and its neighbors.
