Israel Withdraws Support for Saudi Arabia’s Expo 2030 Bid Amid Condemning Crimes in Gaza
Israel has officially retracted its support for Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the World Expo 2030. This decision comes amidst escalating tensions over Riyadh’s criticism of Tel Aviv’s military actions in Gaza, as reported by the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation, Kan.
Saudi Arabia’s Condemnation of Israeli Actions
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been vocal in condemning what it describes as “Israeli massacres” in Gaza. Israel’s withdrawal of support for its Expo 2030 bid shows a matter of honor. Last year, Israel had indicated potential support for Saudi Arabia, amid talks aimed at normalizing Saudi Israeli relations.
Riyadh’s Alignment with Arab World
However, Riyadh’s alignment with the broader Arab world in denouncing Israel’s military operations in Gaza has been a pivotal factor. The Saudi government has called on the international community to impose an arms embargo against Israel, according to The Times of Israel. This is the main reason Israel withdraw support to Saudi Arabia’s Expo 2030 Bid.
Normalization Talks and Palestinian Issue
U.S. officials, in earlier discussions with The Times of Israel, acknowledged that a normalization deal between the two countries remains possible post-conflict. However, they admitted that the Palestinian issue would likely play a more significant role in negotiations following the recent war.
Expo 2030 Bid: Israel’s Shift in Support to Italy
Instead of backing Saudi Arabia, Israel has chosen to support Italy’s bid to host the Expo 2030 in Rome, as per Kan’s report.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Stance
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has expressed grave concerns over the “brutal crimes” against civilians in Gaza. He emphasized the need for a collective effort to halt the humanitarian catastrophe. In his speech at the virtual BRICS summit, the Crown Prince also called for an immediate influx of aid into Gaza and urged nations to cease arms exports to Israel.
He strongly criticized the Israeli operations in Gaza, highlighting the suffering of civilians, damage to healthcare facilities, and religious sites. He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s staunch opposition to these operations and emphasized the Kingdom’s unwavering stance that peace and stability in Palestine can only be achieved through a two-state solution based on 1967 borders.
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