Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly dismissed proposals from the United States regarding the Gaza offensive and the future of the region. Netanyahu made it clear that he does not support the idea of a Palestinian state, which has been a requirement set by other Middle Eastern countries for normalizing relations.
This refusal by Netanyahu has widened the rift between him and the Biden administration. The Israeli Prime Minister voiced his concerns that the American proposals would put Israel in jeopardy. He also reiterated Israel’s intention to maintain control over the entire area between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, which directly contradicts the aspirations of Palestinians for that territory as their future homeland.
The White House responded to Netanyahu’s stance, indicating a difference in perspective. White House national security spokesman, John Kirby, stated, “We obviously see it differently.”
Netanyahu further dismissed calls to reduce the military operation in Gaza, despite the high number of Palestinian casualties and the severe humanitarian crisis. He expressed determination to achieve an absolute victory.
In response to Netanyahu’s rejection of a Palestinian state, the Palestinian Authority emphasized the significance of having an independent state for regional security and stability. They criticized Israel’s policies and accused the U.S. of biased support towards Israel.
The United States has been advocating for a two-state solution, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken stressing that Israel cannot achieve genuine security without a clear pathway to Palestinian statehood.
