Washington, Feb 07 (V7N) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has proposed a controversial theory suggesting that a Palestinian state could be established on Saudi Arabian land. Netanyahu made this unexpected remark during an interview with Israeli media outlet Channel Fourteen, while on an official visit to Washington.

Netanyahu’s Statement

In the interview, Netanyahu stated:

"If the Saudi authorities want, they can create a Palestinian state on Saudi Arabian land. There is plenty of empty land there."

This statement comes amid ongoing tensions and stalled negotiations regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Saudi Arabia’s Response

In response, Saudi Arabia firmly reiterated its long-standing position that the establishment of a Palestinian state within the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, is a prerequisite for normalizing relations with Israel. Riyadh has made it clear that no negotiations will proceed unless this condition is met.

Netanyahu on Palestinian Statehood Post-October 7

When questioned further, Netanyahu dismissed the possibility of a Palestinian state being established within territories currently under Israeli control, especially after the events of October 7.

"Do you know what that is? There was a Palestinian state. It was called Gaza. Gaza was led by Hamas, they ran this Palestinian state. And look what we got from there—the biggest genocide since the Holocaust," Netanyahu stated, referring to the Hamas-led governance in Gaza and the violence stemming from the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.

Netanyahu and Trump’s Joint Press Conference

Before the interview, Netanyahu attended a joint press conference with US President Donald Trump in Washington. During the press conference, Trump announced a US plan to control the Gaza Strip, further complicating the already strained relations in the region.

Global Reactions and Implications

Netanyahu’s comments are expected to provoke strong reactions from both Palestinian leaders and the international community, as they contradict established international efforts for a two-state solution based on mutual territorial agreements. The proposal to shift the Palestinian state to Saudi Arabian land is likely to face widespread condemnation and deepen existing regional tensions.

END/RH/AJ