Saudi Crown Prince Calls Israel's Actions in Gaza 'Genocide'

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has publicly condemned Israel's actions in Gaza as “genocide,” issuing some of the most severe criticism of Israel by a Saudi official since the conflict began. Speaking at a summit of Muslim and Arab leaders, the crown prince accused Israel of severe humanitarian violations in Gaza and criticized its attacks in Lebanon and Iran.

This statement marks a significant moment in Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic stance and highlights shifting alliances in the region. During the summit, the prince warned Israel against any aggression on Iranian soil, a move indicating growing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, historically seen as rivals.

Saudi Arabia Joins Call for Israeli Withdrawal from Palestinian Territories

Saudi Arabia’s crown prince and other summit attendees echoed demands for a complete Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank and Gaza. This aligns with broader Arab and Muslim world calls for an end to Israeli occupation and a peaceful solution to the conflict.

Saudi Foreign Minister Decries Global Inaction

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al-Saud, took the international community to task, saying it had “failed” to bring an end to the violence in Gaza. He emphasized that Israel’s aggression has driven Gaza into starvation and crisis, pointing to a need for immediate intervention. “Where the international community primarily has failed is ending the immediate conflict and putting an end to Israel’s aggression,” he said.

Background: Conflict’s Escalation and Heavy Casualties

The recent Gaza conflict was triggered by a deadly Hamas-led assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which left around 1,200 dead and resulted in over 250 hostages taken. Israel retaliated with a large-scale military campaign aimed at dismantling Hamas. The toll has been devastating, with the Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry reporting over 43,400 deaths in the region since the start of hostilities.

A recent UN Human Rights Office report indicated that nearly 70% of the verified victims in Gaza over the past six months have been women and children. Additionally, the summit’s leaders condemned Israel's "continuous attacks" on UN personnel and facilities in Gaza, a serious concern for humanitarian operations in the area.

Israel’s Recent Move Against UNRWA Draws Criticism

Last month, Israel’s Knesset passed a bill banning the UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) from operating in Israel and East Jerusalem, citing claims that the agency collaborates with Hamas. This decision has raised alarms among Western allies like the US and UK, who worry the move will restrict critical aid to Gaza.