Why Gulf Muslim Nations Are Furious At Israel: Saudi Arabia To UAE Issue Stern Warnings, Abraham Accord At Risk | World News

Riyadh: The Israeli Knesset’s approval of draft legislation aimed at expanding control over the West Bank has sparked outrage across the Gulf. Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) strongly condemned this move. Gulf states have signaled that Tel Aviv’s actions cross a “red line” and could jeopardize the Abraham Accords, the landmark agreement aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and many Arab countries.

Qatar and Saudi Arabia issued strong statements condemning the Knesset’s approval of two bills imposing Israeli sovereignty over occupied West Bank areas. Both countries described this step as a clear violation of Palestinians’ rights and a challenge to international law.

Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, objected to the move, calling it a “red line”. He emphasized that the balance between Israel’s security concerns and the establishment of a viable Palestinian state must be maintained.

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that two bills that would facilitate the spread of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are extremely disturbing. Doha described these as gross violations of Palestinians’ historic rights and violations of international law-related resolutions.

Qatar called on the international community and the UN Security Council to act responsibly to prevent Israel from pursuing expansionist plans.

Saudi Arabia also condemned the approval of the laws. The Saudi Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the kingdom firmly rejects Israeli settlements and expansionist violations. He reaffirmed his support for the natural and historical right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on the 1967 borders and in accordance with relevant international decisions.

What Do the Proposed Laws Include?

The Israeli Knesset has voted to give preliminary approval to a bill that would expand Israeli sovereignty over parts of the occupied West Bank. This move constitutes de facto annexation and is widely considered a violation of international law.

The vote passed by a narrow margin of 25-24 in the 120-seat Knesset. Preliminary approval represents the first step in the legislative process. According to the statement made by the Knesset, the bill aims to apply Israeli sovereignty to areas in the West Bank and marks the first stage of implementing these measures.

Gulf countries are watching closely. Their responses suggest that Israel’s legislative moves could test the future of normalized ties with many Muslim countries in the region by threatening the fragile architecture of the Abraham Accords.