Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has once again rejected the idea of creating a Palestinian state, further deepening the divide between Israel and the United States. This comes after a phone call between Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden, in which Biden indicated that Netanyahu may still be open to the idea of a two-state solution. However, Netanyahu’s remarks have made it clear that he remains steadfast in his opposition to Palestinian sovereignty.
The US has long believed that a two-state solution, with a Palestinian state alongside Israel, is crucial for long-term stability in the region. However, the White House recently acknowledged that the US and Israeli governments “clearly see things differently” on this issue. Despite this, Biden insisted that a two-state solution is still possible with Netanyahu in office, suggesting that there are various types of two-state solutions that could be explored.
Netanyahu, on the other hand, reiterated his policy that Israel must retain security control over Gaza even after Hamas is destroyed. He believes that this is necessary to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel. This requirement contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty and dampens hopes for diplomatic negotiations and the peace process.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Netanyahu also stated that Israel must retain security control over the entire area west of the Jordan River, which includes the Israeli-occupied West Bank territory. These comments further solidify his position on the matter and highlight his increasing isolation abroad.
While Netanyahu faces isolation abroad, he continues to receive support for the war at home. Thousands of protesters gathered in Tel Aviv, urging him to reach a truce to allow the hostages held by Hamas to return home. The war has taken a toll on both sides, with Hamas killing about 1,300 people, mostly civilians, and taking 240 hostages in their surprise attack on southern Israel. The ongoing conflict has also resulted in significant casualties and injuries in Gaza.
Despite Israel’s superior military strength, they are still facing significant resistance from Hamas across the territory. Israeli forces have continued to push into southern Gaza, searching for top Hamas officials believed to be hiding in Khan Younis. While the focus of the fighting is now in southern Gaza, there have been renewed clashes around the northern town of Jabalia as well.
Overall, Netanyahu’s rejection of a Palestinian state has deepened the divide between Israel and the US. While Biden remains hopeful for a two-state solution, Netanyahu’s firm stance on retaining security control over Gaza and the West Bank territory hinders any progress towards diplomatic negotiations. The ongoing war and its toll on both sides further complicate the situation, leaving the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations uncertain.
