Smotrich’s ‘Camel’ remark risks diplomatic fallout with Saudi Arabia

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has come under fire for remarks made Thursday, stating that Israel should reject any normalization deal with Saudi Arabia if it is conditioned on the creation of a Palestinian state, according to a report by Haaretz.

“If Saudi Arabia tells us that normalization comes in exchange for a Palestinian state, then no thank you, my friends. Keep riding your camels in the Saudi desert,” Smotrich reportedly said.

The controversial statement, also cited by Israeli news outlet Ynet, has drawn sharp criticism for its dismissive tone and potential diplomatic fallout, especially as regional efforts to resume dialogue between Israel and Arab states face increasing scrutiny.

Smotrich’s comments come just a day after Saudi Arabia condemned Israeli legislative moves aimed at extending Israeli sovereignty in the occupied West Bank.

 In a statement issued Wednesday evening, Riyadh reaffirmed its total rejection of Israeli settlement expansion and what it called "violations committed by the occupation authorities."

Impact on Israel’s International Standing

Smotrich, a far-right figure within the Israeli government, has frequently made inflammatory remarks that have been criticized both domestically and abroad. 

His latest comments are seen by many analysts and observers as damaging to Israel’s image, particularly at a time when Saudi-Israeli normalization talks are reportedly ongoing, albeit with uncertainty surrounding the terms.

Diplomatic observers warn that such rhetoric undermines efforts at regional rapprochement, especially with a key player like Saudi Arabia, which has consistently tied normalization to progress on the Palestinian issue.

While no official Saudi response has been made to Smotrich’s remarks as of this writing, regional media and political figures have begun expressing concern over what they describe as provocative language unworthy of diplomatic discourse.