The weak statement by Israel's intended ally: A few hours after Hamas' surprise attack, the Saudi Foreign Ministry addressed the clashes on Saturday. The announcement lacked any condemnation of the terrorist organizations, despite the harm and abduction of soldiers and civilians.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry announced: "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is closely monitoring the unprecedented developments between the Palestinian factions and the Israeli occupation forces, which has led to an increase in the level of violence on several fronts there. The kingdom calls for an immediate cessation of the escalation between the sides, protection of civilians and restraint."
Israel Hayom correspondent Neta Bar reports from Ashkelon after Hamas' surprise attack // Photo: Shmuel Buchris
The statement added: "The kingdom recalls its repeated warnings about the explosion of the situation as a result of the continued occupation and the continued provocations against the holy sites. We recall on the international community to take responsibility and work towards a two-state solution in order to achieve security and peace in the region."
Qatar, one of the mediators in recent years between Israel and Hamas and one that regularly pumps money into the Gaza Strip, also responded to the events. According to the statement, Qatar "expressed its concern over the escalation in Gaza and calls for quiet and calm."
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