Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich faces international backlash over controversial remarks about Saudi Arabia and Palestinian statehood. Smotrich apologized for his “camel” comment but remained firm against any normalization deal tied to a Palestinian government. He emphasized Israel’s historic connection to Judea and Samaria, warning that a Palestinian state would never arise. While supporting the Abraham Accords, Smotrich framed future peace as possible without Palestinian sovereignty and dismissed international pressure. The minister stressed Israel’s independence in shaping its future, signaling continued economic and societal development amid diplomatic tensions in the Middle East.