In video: Israeli official launches violent assault on Saudi Arabia

QUDS, Oct. 23 (YPA) – Israeli occupation’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich launched on Thursday a scathing attack on Saudi Arabia, using desert camels in a racist tone and insulting Riyadh.

In new statements, the Israeli minister said he would not agree to any agreement to normalize relations with Saudi Arabia if it included the establishment of a Palestinian state, saying, “No thanks, keep riding camels.”

Smotrich’s remarks came during a conference titled “Halakha in the Technological Age,” organized by the Zomit Institute and the Makor Rishon newspaper.

He said, “Sovereignty is the test (referring to the annexation of the West Bank). If Saudi Arabia says to us: Normalization in exchange for a Palestinian state, my friends, no thanks. Keep riding camels in the Saudi desert.”

“We will continue to advance our economy, our society, our country, and all the great and wonderful things we know how to do,” Smotrich continued to say.

His remarks sparked widespread controversy and sharp criticism due to their racist tone, especially as they come as the US administration prepares to host Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House next month to discuss several issues, including the push for an agreement to normalize relations between “Israel” and Saudi Arabia.

For years, Riyadh has maintained its position that it will not normalize relations with “Israel” unless an agreement is reached that guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within a clear and final timetable.

Smotrich and other members of Netanyahu’s government strongly oppose this demand, emphasizing their rejection of any step that leads to the establishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank or Gaza.

AA