Albanian PM blames Hamas for Gaza crisis while omitting Palestinian deaths in Knesset speech

• Albanian PM Edi Rama addresses Knesset, blaming Hamas for Gaza’s humanitarian crisis while omitting the deaths of over 71,000 Palestinians.
• Rama praises Israeli leaders, calling Netanyahu “dear Bibi” and expressing gratitude to President Herzog and the Knesset.
• Arab lawmakers walk out in protest of Rama’s one-sided speech.

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has come under scrutiny after addressing 'Israel’s' parliament, the Knesset, where he pinned Gaza’s humanitarian crisis entirely on Palestinian group Hamas while failing to acknowledge the deaths of over 71,000 Palestinians amid 'Israel’s' ongoing military campaign. 

Rama opened his speech by expressing goodwill toward 'Israeli' leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and highlighting Albania’s historical solidarity with the Jewish people. He accepted the Presidential Medal of Honour from President Isaac Herzog, whom he called a “noble and faithful friend of Albania.”

Experts and analysts in Albania criticized Rama’s remarks as one-sided, suggesting that the speech positioned Albania as a supporter of 'Israel' in the Gaza war. Political analyst Marlind Laci said Rama’s government “has no clear plan” in the Balkans or the Middle East and acts more on personal instinct than national interest.

Rama Declares Hamas Sole “Jailer” of Gaza

In his address, Rama argued that international observers often misidentify the source of Gaza’s suffering. “The jailer of Gaza is Hamas, no one else but Hamas,” he said, accusing the group of enforcing a violent, totalitarian system and promoting an ideology that values no Palestinian life until Israel is destroyed.

Rama called for the dismantling of Hamas, claiming that “until Hamas is fully dismantled, its two million prisoners will not be free, and no peace will endure.” He referenced a former communist-era tunnel in Tirana, now a memorial, suggesting that Hamas’ “tunnels of terror” could one day serve as historical reminders.

Despite repeated references to “bloody conflicts,” Rama made no mention of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which has been recognized by multiple human rights organizations as a genocide.

Praise for 'Israeli' Leaders and Personal Flattery

Rama’s speech included extended praise for 'Israeli' officials. Addressing Netanyahu as “dear Bibi,” he joked about being nervous, called Netanyahu one of the world’s top speakers, and compared his delivery to “a speech exam.” Rama concluded by expressing “my deepest and most heartfelt gratitude” to the Knesset and 'Israeli' leadership.

Highlighting Albania’s Jewish History

Rama also underscored Albania’s historical protection of Jews during World War II, citing the country’s unique record of emerging from the war with a larger Jewish population than before. He said Albania will soon open a museum in Vlora dedicated to this legacy, emphasizing that the nation’s humanitarian actions were driven by humanism, not religious affiliation.

Confrontational Stance on Iran

The Albanian premier criticized Iran, aligning with 'Israel’s' position. Rama recalled that Albania protected thousands of Iranian citizens opposed to Tehran, despite diplomatic and security risks. He said Albania severed ties with Iran and expelled embassy personnel, emphasizing that “Khomeinism is hate and death,” contrasting it with Islam as “love and humility.”

Praise for Abraham Accords and Peace Initiatives

Rama lauded the Abraham Accords as a “stunning peace agreement,” asserting that visionary leadership in the region proves that “peace is possible” and can elevate peacemaking nations.

Family Faith Story Underscores Pro-Israel Message

Citing his diverse family background—Catholic, Muslim, and Orthodox—Rama suggested Albania embodies religious tolerance. He noted that even if his youngest son were to choose Judaism in the future, it would be welcomed, reinforcing his broader message of coexistence.

Arab Lawmakers Walk Out

Rama’s dismissal of criticism of 'Israel' and exclusive focus on Hamas prompted Arab lawmakers in the Knesset to boycott his speech. While invoking peace and the memory of those who perished, Rama made no reference to Palestinians killed in Gaza.

Domestic Backlash in Albania

Rama’s pro-'Israel' stance has sparked protests in Albania. Demonstrators in Tirana carrying Albanian and Palestinian flags clashed with police, throwing Molotov cocktails and fireworks, demanding Rama’s resignation. Further demonstrations under the slogan “Not in My Name” are planned.

Invitation to Join US-Backed Gaza Peace Board

Rama had previously confirmed an invitation from US President Donald Trump to join an international body overseeing transitional governance in Gaza, dubbed the Peace Board. He described the invitation as a recognition of Albania’s growing global influence.

Rama’s Knesset address underscores his firm pro-'Israel' position, praise for historic Albanian humanitarianism, and alignment with 'Israeli' foreign policy on Hamas and Iran.

However, it has drawn sharp criticism for ignoring the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and fueling domestic controversy over Albania’s stance in the Middle East.