Cairo: Several Arab countries have voiced strong disapproval of recent comments made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in which he expressed his commitment to the concept of a 'Greater Israel.' These comments have been perceived as a direct threat to the sovereignty of neighboring states and have drawn widespread condemnation.
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu articulated his vision of a Greater Israel during an interview with news channel i24. He described himself as being on a "historic and spiritual mission," aligning his vision with the aspirations of Jewish generations past and future. The term 'Greater Israel' is often associated with expansionist ambitions, encompassing territories such as the West Bank, Gaza, Syria's Golan Heights, and potentially extending to Egypt's Sinai Peninsula and parts of Jordan.
In response, Egypt has formally requested clarification regarding Netanyahu's statements, suggesting that they contribute to regional instability and undermine peace efforts. A statement from the Egyptian Foreign Ministry emphasized that these remarks contradict the peace aspirations shared by both regional and international stakeholders. It reiterated that the only viable path to peace lies in resuming negotiations and concluding hostilities in Gaza, ultimately leading to the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Jordan's Foreign Ministry labeled Netanyahu's comments as "a dangerous and provocative escalation" that violates international law and the United Nations Charter. The ministry warned that such rhetoric, perpetuated by extremist elements within the Israeli government, perpetuates cycles of violence and conflict in Gaza and the West Bank. It urged the international community to take swift action to halt Israel's provocative measures, which threaten regional stability and global peace.
The Palestinian Authority condemned Netanyahu's remarks as "a disregard of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people" and a provocation that endangers regional security. It reaffirmed its commitment to establishing an independent Palestinian state based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Yemen's Foreign Ministry echoed these sentiments, describing Netanyahu's statements as a blatant violation of international law and a challenge to the global community's will. It cautioned that continued Israeli policies could escalate tensions and instability in the region.
Qatar's Foreign Ministry criticized the remarks as an extension of Israel's occupation approach, which undermines state sovereignty and international law. It reiterated Qatar's support for efforts aimed at achieving a just, comprehensive, and sustainable regional peace.
Saudi Arabia also rejected the expansionist agenda of Israeli officials, reaffirming the Palestinian people's historical and legal rights to an independent state on their lands. The Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) also condemned Israel's expansionist tendencies, warning of the threat they pose to regional and international peace.
The Palestinian group Hamas highlighted the danger posed by Netanyahu's comments, emphasizing the threat of Israel's expansionist plans to regional countries and peoples. The ongoing Israeli military offensive against Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with over 61,700 Palestinians killed, nearly half of whom were women and children.
The International Criminal Court previously issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.