Knesset's Resounding Rejection of a Palestinian State: A Stalwart Stand for Israel’s Security and Sovereignty

In a historic and resolute response to the October 7th attack on Israel by Hamas, the Knesset Plenum voted decisively early Thursday in favor of a declaration co-sponsored by the Likud, Shas, Religious Zionism, Otzma Yehudit, United Torah Judaism, Yisrael Beitenu, and New Hope - The United Right parliamentary groups. The topic was crucial: "Statements and reports around the world regarding the recognition of a Palestinian state and Israel's need to prepare for a possible diplomatic challenge." The resolution passed with a commanding majority of 68-9, showcasing Israel's unified front against international pressures and threats to its sovereignty.

In February, the Knesset Plenum had already made its stance clear with a resolution objecting to unilateral international recognition of a Palestinian state. This latest declaration underscores the Knesset's unwavering commitment to Israel's security and territorial integrity.

The Declaration's Firm Stand

The declaration reads: "The Knesset of Israel firmly opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state west of the Jordan. The establishment of a Palestinian state in the heart of the Land of Israel would pose an existential danger to the State of Israel and its citizens, perpetuate the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and destabilize the region. It will only be a matter of a short time until Hamas takes over the Palestinian state and turns it into a radical Islamic terror base that operates in coordination with the Iranian-led axis to eliminate the State of Israel. Promoting the idea of a Palestinian state at this time would be a reward for terrorism and would only encourage Hamas and its supporters, who will view this as a victory thanks to the massacre of October 7, 2023, and a prelude to the takeover of jihadist Islam in the Middle East."

Majority of Israeli Knesset votes against the creation of a 'Palestinian State'. https://t.co/6gGzJlcQ2f

AJA is the only major Jewish org in Australia that proudly and publicly shares this view which is held by the vast majority of Israeli Jews and likely the majority of…

— Australian Jewish Association (@AustralianJA) July 18, 2024

Voices of Determination

During the heated debate, MK Zeev Elkin (New Hope - The United Right) pointed out the conspicuous absence of several parties. "You will see many empty chairs here of parties that will prefer not to attend the debate because to come to the Israeli public and say that they do not reject the establishment of a Palestinian state is unacceptable even within their own public." Elkin's words resonate with recent polls showing a dramatic shift in public opinion, emphasizing the growing consensus against Palestinian statehood even among traditionally liberal factions who now largely reject the viability of a Palestinian state due to the widespread support amongst Palestinians for the brutal Hamas massacre.

MK Moshe Solomon (Religious Zionism) warned of the dangers posed by international recognition of a Palestinian state, calling on the Prime Minister to declare unequivocally that a Palestinian state will not be established. His sentiments were echoed by MK Avigdor Liberman (Yisrael Beitenu), who criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's past support for a two-state solution, highlighting the shift in Israeli politics and public opinion in the wake of ongoing Palestinian violence. Liberman's remarks reflect a shift in Israeli public opinion, with many now viewing the idea of a Palestinian state as untenable in light of recent events.

MK Gideon Sa'ar (New Hope - The United Right) emphasized the need for clear and strong opposition to a Palestinian state, advocating for a return to Menachem Begin's idea of autonomy without foreign sovereignty west of the Jordan River. He argued that any area from which Israel withdraws becomes a terror zone, a sentiment widely shared among Israelis. His comments echoed a sentiment laid out by Benjamin Netanyahu in a 1978 speech which is prevalent among many Israelis that Jordan, with its significant Palestinian population, already serves as a Palestinian state. In those remarks, the young Netanyahu pointed out that even the leaders of Jordan and what was then the Palestine Liberation Organization, King Hussein and Yasser Arafat respectfully, agreed that Jordan was a Palestinian State.

It’s true that the motion uses the “reward for terrorism” language, but it says the Knesset “emphatically” opposes a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River, which would be an “existential threat” and a power base for Iran. Period. It doesn’t set a time limit on that. pic.twitter.com/K2ZxMZyQgY

— Lahav Harkov 🎗️ (@LahavHarkov) July 18, 2024

Opposition and Rejection

MK Mansour Abbas (United Arab List-Ra'am) argued that the arguments against a Palestinian state actually supported its establishment, suggesting that peace agreements with sovereign states have been more successful. However, this view was staunchly opposed by MK Simcha Rothman (Religious Zionism), who proudly declared the Knesset's unified stand against a Palestinian state, emphasizing the importance of opposing what he termed a "terrorist enterprise."

Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich dismissed the notion of a Palestinian nation, stating, "Those who are nicknamed Palestinians are not willing to recognize the Jewish state. They do not want to live alongside it; they want to live instead of it."

A Historic Resolution

The debate culminated with Minister of Communications MK Shlomo Karhi (Likud) invoking biblical history, stating, "God told Moses to destroy Sihon and his entire nation, so that all the nations in the Land of Israel will know that whoever messes with Israel, his blood shall be on his own head." His words reflected the deep-rooted conviction and historical context that drives Israel's determination to protect its land and people.

Ultimately, the Knesset Plenum rejected proposals from the United Arab List-Ra'am to recognize a Palestinian state and from Hadash-Ta'al to recognize a Palestinian state with east Jerusalem as its capital. The overwhelming rejection, with 62 MKs voting against the proposals and only nine in support, underscores Israel's resolute stance against external pressures and its commitment to maintaining its sovereignty and security. Some supporters of a Palestinian State have been calling for a third organized uprising (Intifada) to protest the vote.

It's officially. You can forget about peace, guys. The Knesset voted against Palestine.

Arafat's strategy of seeking unilateral peace, hoping for the Palestinian state in return, has failed, and the Palestinian Authority has no choice but to declare a third intifada now. pic.twitter.com/ynu4LklDr3

— Munir 🇱🇧🇸🇾 (@JnoubiSyrian) July 18, 2024

This decisive action by the Knesset sends a powerful message to the world: Israel will not yield to threats or terrorist tactics. The establishment of a Palestinian state is seen as an existential threat, and Israel remains steadfast in its resolve to protect its citizens and secure its future.

Historical Context

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has deep historical roots dating back to the early 20th century, with both Jews and Arabs laying claim to the same territories. Following the Holocaust, international support grew for the establishment of a Jewish state, leading to the creation of Israel in 1948. This prompted wars and ongoing conflicts with neighboring Arab states and Palestinian groups.

The idea of a two-state solution, envisioning independent Israeli and Palestinian states coexisting peacefully, has been a central but contentious element in peace negotiations for decades. Efforts to achieve this solution have been marred by violence, political disagreements, and mutual distrust.

Wisdom by Benjamin Netanyahu in 1978. pic.twitter.com/l1tkDo4u18

— Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) May 29, 2024

The recent Knesset vote takes place against the backdrop of escalating tensions, particularly following the brutal Hamas attack on October 7, which has intensified Israeli security concerns and diminished support for Palestinian statehood among the Israeli public. This context underscores the deep-seated fears and complex dynamics at play in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Impact on Peace Process

The Knesset's decisive vote against the establishment of a Palestinian state significantly impacts the already fragile peace process. Here's how:

1. Increased Tensions: The resolution further strains relations between Israelis and Palestinians, making it harder to resume meaningful negotiations.
2. Diplomatic Fallout: International efforts to mediate peace may be hampered. Countries advocating for a two-state solution might view Israel's stance as a setback, potentially reducing their involvement or altering their approach.
3. Internal Divisions: The vote exposes and potentially widens political divides within Israel, with some factions staunchly opposed to Palestinian statehood and others advocating for a more conciliatory approach.
4. Security Concerns: Emphasizing security threats from a potential Palestinian state, particularly in light of recent violence, underscores Israel's prioritization of security over diplomatic resolutions. This could lead to more stringent security measures and military actions.
5. Palestinian Response: The resolution is likely to elicit strong reactions from Palestinian leaders and the broader Palestinian public, possibly leading to increased unrest and further complicating peace efforts.
6. Regional Stability: Neighboring countries and regional actors will closely monitor these developments. The resolution may affect their diplomatic relations with Israel and influence their own policies regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Overall, the Knesset's vote underscores the complexities and deep-seated mistrust that continue to hinder the peace process, posing significant challenges for future negotiations and efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.