Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (file photo)

Iran's hard-line president has suggested that if Germany and Austria feel responsible for the massacre of millions of Jews during World War II, then the state of Israel should be moved to their territory.

Speaking to reporters at a conference of Islamic leaders in the Saudi city of Mecca Thursday, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad expressed doubt that the Holocaust ever happened.  But he said that if Europeans believe it is true, then they should give some of their land to the Jews and move Israel to Europe.

Mr. Ahmadinejad caused an international outcry in October when he suggested that Israel be "wiped off the map."  He also called Israel a "tumor" and asked why it had imposed itself on Palestinian land.

Israel has denounced the Iranian leader's remarks as "outrageous and racist."  The White House says such comments further underscore U.S. concerns about Iran's regime and why it is so important Tehran not have the ability to develop nuclear weapons.