Why Some Believe Saudi Arabia Betrayed the People of Gaza

 

 Steps Toward Normalization with Israel

Saudi Arabia has increased behind-the-scenes engagement with Israel in recent years. Although there is no official diplomatic recognition yet, several signs point toward a warming of ties, such as:

• Participation in U.S.-led discussions about regional cooperation with Israel.

• Shared intelligence and security concerns with Israel, particularly about Iran.

• Support for the Abraham Accords (where UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan normalized ties with Israel), even if Saudi Arabia hasn't officially signed yet.

Criticism:
Palestinians and their supporters feel that these steps toward Israel ignore or sideline the Palestinian struggle, especially when Gaza is under siege. They believe any normalization without demanding an end to the occupation and a free Palestine is betrayal.

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2. Lack of Strong, Direct Support During Gaza Crises

Whenever there is a war or assault on Gaza (such as in 2008, 2014, 2021, or 2023), Saudi Arabia usually:

• Issues official statements calling for peace and calm.

• Provides humanitarian aid, such as food and medical supplies.

• Calls on the international community to stop the violence.

Criticism:
Many believe this is not enough, especially from a powerful and wealthy country like Saudi Arabia. Critics expect:

• Stronger diplomatic pressure on Israel (such as breaking off indirect ties or cutting trade).

• More active political leadership to unite the Arab world in defense of Gaza.

• Possibly even using oil or political influence to pressure Western powers like the U.S.

To them, passive responses and aid aren't sufficient, especially when children are being killed and homes are destroyed in Gaza.

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3. Hostility Toward Hamas

Saudi Arabia does not support Hamas, the political and militant group that governs the Gaza Strip. Reasons include:

• Hamas has ties to Iran, which Saudi Arabia sees as its main regional rival.

• Saudi Arabia favors the Palestinian Authority (PA) in the West Bank, which is more moderate and aligned with Saudi interests.

• Saudi officials accuse Hamas of being an obstacle to peace and destabilizing the region.

Criticism:
This position leads Saudi Arabia to limit direct aid or political backing to Gaza, which is under Hamas control. Many believe this punishes the people of Gaza, who suffer regardless of who governs them.

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4. Strategic Shift in Foreign Policy

Saudi Arabia under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) is focusing on:

• Economic modernization (Vision 2030).

• Strengthening ties with global powers like the U.S., China, and Israel.

• Reducing regional conflict to focus on domestic development.

This means Saudi Arabia is less willing to be involved in direct conflict or aggressive politics over Palestine. Critics say this is abandoning the Palestinian cause for economic gain and global image.