Saudi Arabia’s cabinet yesterday condemned Israel’s decision to expand military operations in the Gaza Strip saying that Israel is committing ‘ethnic cleansing’ against the Palestinians.
The cabinet held a session in NEOM chaired by Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
“The cabinet strongly and vehemently condemns Israeli occupation’s decision to occupy the Gaza Strip and condemns its persistence in committing crimes of starvation, brutal practices and ethnic cleansing against the brotherly Palestinian people,” according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The Saudi cabinet said that it “stresses that the international community’s and Security Council’s continued inability to halt these attacks and violations undermines the basis of the international system and international legitimacy, threatens regional and global peace and security, and portends grave consequences that could encourage genocide and forced displacement.”
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also briefed ministers on his recent meeting with King Abdullah of Jordan.
Discussions between the two leaders addressed bilateral relations, regional issues, and developments in Palestine, state news agency SPA reported.
The Crown Prince also updated the cabinet on his call with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who expressed appreciation for the kingdom’s efforts in supporting Palestinian statehood and encouraging international recognition.
The cabinet welcomed announcements by Australia and New Zealand regarding recognition of the State of Palestine, praising growing global consensus around a two-state solution with 1967 borders and East Jerusalem as the capital.
Israel last week approved a much-criticised plan to take control of Gaza City with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying that he had no choice but to ‘complete the job’.
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