Smotrich Apologizes, Faces Backlash Over Remarks

Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich provoked widespread condemnation after saying Saudi Arabia could "keep riding camels" if it demanded a Palestinian state in return for normalization. He posted a video on X apologizing for the insult but reiterated his opposition to Palestinian statehood and said he expects Saudis not to "deny our heritage," emphasizing Israel's ties to the West Bank (Judea and Samaria). Senior Israeli figures, including opposition leaders, called the remarks racist and said Smotrich does not represent the state. The controversy complicates U.S. efforts and planned talks between President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over possible Israel–Saudi normalization.