In a decisive move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced his intention to introduce a resolution that firmly opposes the "unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state." This declaration emerged during a pivotal session of the State Security Cabinet (SSC) this Sunday, amidst growing discussions within the global arena about imposing a Palestinian statehood as part of potential resolutions following the conflict in Gaza.
Netanyahu elucidated the context of this initiative against the backdrop of recent international deliberations, stating, "In light of the talk recently heard in the international community about an attempt to unilaterally impose a Palestinian state on Israel, I am bringing a declarative decision on this issue for the government's approval today. I am sure it will be widely accepted," demonstrating his confidence in the government's concurrence with his stance.
PM Netanyahu:
— Arsen Ostrovsky 🎗️ (@Ostrov_A) February 18, 2024
"In light of remarks that have been heard recently in the international community about an attempt to unilaterally force a Palestinian state on Israel, today I submit for Government approval a declarative decision on the issue. I am certain that it will receive… https://t.co/022M9ScWz7
The prime minister shared a draft of the declaration, which starts unequivocally: "Israel outright rejects international dictates regarding the permanent settlement with the Palestinians. Such an arrangement will be reached only through direct negotiations between the parties, without preconditions." This articulation underscores Israel's commitment to a negotiated peace process and its staunch opposition to externally imposed solutions.
The draft further elaborates on Israel's stance against the unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7 massacre, stating, "Such a recognition, following the massacre of October 7, will give a huge reward to terrorism, a reward like no other, and will prevent any future peace settlement." This perspective is premised on the belief that acknowledging a Palestinian state under such conditions would inadvertently endorse terrorism and undermine prospects for a peaceful resolution.
PM Benjamin Netanyahu: Responds to Biden’s Palestinian State initiative pic.twitter.com/OBAF8jd0LY
— Shiri_Sabra (@sabra_the) February 17, 2024
Adding to the discourse, Minister Gideon Sa'ar, who attended the SSC meeting alongside war cabinet member Benny Gantz as part of an emergency unity government formed at the war's commencement, voiced concerns over the implications of unilateral Palestinian state recognition on Israel's security. Sa'ar highlighted, "Israel demands security freedom of action in Judea and Samaria and Gaza in order to fight terrorism. The biggest absurdity is the claim that a Palestinian state will provide security to Israel," thereby challenging the notion that Palestinian statehood could contribute to regional stability.
Emphasizing the need for a strategic communication effort, Sa'ar advocated for "an explanatory campaign" aimed at clarifying the consequences of recognizing a Palestinian state post-October 7, likening it to the notion of "giving a state to al-Qaeda after September 11." This analogy serves to underline the perceived danger and inappropriateness of awarding statehood in the context of terrorism.
🇮🇱 NETANYAHU: THERE WILL NEVER BE A 2-STATE DEAL
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) February 18, 2024
Netanyahu has reportedly proposed a resolution where Israel opposes the unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state and rejects international pressure.
Source: News Cabinet https://t.co/w6YoUs15Tb
Through these measures and statements, the Israeli government aims to assert its position on the international stage, advocating for direct dialogue and negotiation as the sole path to a durable peace, while categorically rejecting unilateral interventions that, in its view, could reward terrorism and compromise future peace efforts.
