Netanyahu Defies International Pressure, Reiterates Israel's Opposition to Palestinian State

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his country's stance against a Palestinian state, amid growing pressure from far-right coalition allies and international support for a two-state solution. Netanyahu's comments came after a draft UN resolution, backed by the US and several Muslim-majority nations, endorsed a pathway to Palestinian independence. The resolution, part of President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan, would establish a 'Board of Peace' transitional administration in Gaza to address reconstruction and economic recovery. However, the plan's mention of a 'credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood' has sparked outrage among Israeli far-right leaders, who have threatened to leave the governing coalition if Netanyahu doesn't denounce the idea of a Palestinian state. In a statement, Netanyahu reiterated Israel's long-standing opposition to a Palestinian state, vowing to demilitarize Gaza and disarm Hamas. His far-right allies, including ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, have called for a walkout, which could potentially bring down Netanyahu's government before the next election in 2026. The Gaza conflict, which ended with a US-brokered ceasefire in October, has left over 69,000 people dead and triggered spillover conflicts across the Middle East. While Netanyahu initially endorsed Trump's plan, he has remained silent on the issue until now, despite pressure from Western nations, including France, which has formally recognized a Palestinian state. Netanyahu's decision to reiterate Israel's opposition to a Palestinian state has sparked concern among those who had hoped for a more conciliatory approach to the conflict. As the international community continues to push for a two-state solution, Netanyahu's stance remains a significant obstacle to peace in the region.