Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has accused Israel of carrying out “collective genocide” in Gaza, in some of his strongest criticism of the country since the war began last year.

"The Kingdom renews its condemnation and categorical rejection of the genocide committed by Israel against the brotherly Palestinian people," Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said at an Arab Islamic summit, echoing comments by Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud late last month.

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler on Monday called on Israel to respect Iran's sovereignty and refrain from attacking Iranian soil, highlighting warming ties between the Middle East rivals.The restored ties between Riyadh and Tehran have reshaped the diplomatic landscape,

When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made the comment in remarks at a summit of representatives of Arab and Islamic nations in Riyadh, state media said.

The Saudi Crown Prince was speaking at a summit of Muslim and Arab leaders and also criticised Israeli strikes on Lebanon and Iran.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia's foreign minister said it was a “failing of the international community” that the war in Gaza had not been stopped, accusing Israel of causing starvation in the territory. Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al-Saud said: "Where the ...

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has publicly condemned Israel's actions in Gaza as “genocide,” issuing some of the most severe criticism of Israel by a Saudi official since the conflict began.