Hamas has strongly condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's suggestion to establish a Palestinian state in Saudi Arabia, labeling the remarks as "colonialist" and hostile towards both Saudi Arabia and the Palestinian people.

Why it matters:

Many in the Arab and Muslim world, consider the remarks as constituting a violation of Saudi Arabia's sovereignty. Netanyahu’s recent comments also underscore the Israeli regime's strategy of ethnic cleansing in Palestine.

The big picture:

Netanyahu's remark follows U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial remarks about relocating Palestinians outside of the Gaza Strip under the guise of rebuilding the war-torn territory, a plot that has sparked strong international condemnation.

What they're saying:

Hamas issued a statement, noting: "Netanyahu's criminal words and suggestion reflect a superiority complex and colonial mindset that disregards the historical rights of the rightful owners of this land." 

Key points:

  • Hamas calls for a unified Arab response to Netanyahu's "colonialist" statements, emphasizing the need for effective measures to halt ongoing Israeli aggression against Palestinians.
  • The group commends Saudi Arabia's consistent support for the Palestinian cause and its rejection of any plans to forcibly displace the Palestinian people.

Go deeper:

The Saudi Foreign Ministry firmly rejected Netanyahu's remarks, stating that such views fail to understand the connection between the Palestinian people and their land.