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US congressman opposes Palestinian state in Saudi deal

A prominent member of Congress has voiced opposition to including Palestinian statehood in any Saudi-Israeli normalization agreement, aligning with recent statements from Israeli leadership. Representative Andy Harris of Maryland's First District conveyed this position in a letter of support to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before the prime minister's scheduled meeting with President Donald Trump.

In his communication, Harris endorsed the Knesset's recent resolution that "categorically opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River." This measure passed with overwhelming support during the ongoing conflict, garnering backing from Netanyahu, the governing coalition, and opposition parties, as Israel faced mounting pressure from the Biden administration. Harris emphasized the continuing relevance of this resolution.

"Israel has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of unprecedented tragedy. Many of us have personally visited the Israeli communities along the Gaza border and witnessed the devastation firsthand. We are absolutely committed to preventing any recurrence of this invasion," Harris wrote to Netanyahu. The congressman referenced the Knesset resolution's warning that "the establishment of a Palestinian state in Israel's heartland would constitute an existential threat to the State of Israel and its citizens, perpetuate the Israeli-Arab conflict, and undermine regional stability."

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Saudi Arabia says it is committed to a Palestinian state including Gaza Strip​


Saudi Arabia reacted swiftly and sternly to US President Donald Trump’s pledge to “take over” the Gaza Strip, reiterating no normalisation deal with Israel will occur until Palestinians receive their own independent state.

“The establishment of the Palestinian state is a firm, unwavering position,” the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a lengthy statement on X on Wednesday.

“His Highness [Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman] has affirmed this position in a clear and explicit manner that does not allow for any interpretation under any circumstances.

“His Highness stressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will not stop its tireless work towards the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and the Kingdom will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel without that.”

Trump said on Tuesday the US would take over the war-ravaged enclave after Palestinians are resettled elsewhere and develop it economically into the “Riviera of the Middle East“. He was speaking at a joint news conference with visiting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Trump’s move contradicts numerous Saudi Arabian statements over the years stressing the kingdom’s commitment to the Arab Peace Initiative, which proposes diplomatic recognition of Israel on the condition a Palestinian state be established.

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