Saudi Arabia and Qatar Point to Israel in Recent Conflict

Saudi Arabia and Qatar have issued official statements on the rising Israel-Hamas conflict. Both countries advocate for de-escalation and civilian safety.

Interestingly, each statement assigns responsibility to Israel, albeit differently.

Qatar takes a direct stance, attributing the current escalation to Israel’s actions. They pinpoint Israel’s repeated visits to Al-Aqsa Mosque under police protection.

Accordingly, Qatar calls for urgent international action to bring Israel in line with international laws.

They reiterate their solid backing for a Palestinian state based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Statement | Qatar Expresses Concern over the Developments in Gaza Strip and Calls for De-escalation#MOFAQatar pic.twitter.com/QtoyaFDnRw

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) October 7, 2023

Conversely, Saudi Arabia takes a slightly different approach. They acknowledge the exceptional situation involving Palestinian factions and Israeli troops.

Still, they request an immediate halt to the violence.

Saudi Arabia emphasizes the importance of protecting civilians and highlights their prior warnings about the volatile situation.

According to the Kingdom, the ongoing occupation and denial of Palestinian rights have contributed to the crisis.

Moreover, Saudi Arabia criticizes repeated provocations against Palestinian religious sites.

They conclude by urging the international community to kick-start a reliable peace process. In their view, a two-state solution remains the only viable path to lasting peace.

Meanwhile, Israel has entered a state of war as of this morning.

#Statement | The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is closely following the developments of the unprecedented situation between a number of Palestinian factions and the Israeli occupation forces, which has resulted in a high level of violence on several fronts there. pic.twitter.com/KEFsNB5ZVb

— Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) October 7, 2023

Facing unparalleled aggression from Hamas, they are grappling with about 3,000 rockets entering Israeli territory.

Civilians, including families and children, are under attack. Israel remains resolute that Hamas will bear a heavy cost for its actions.