Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticised the decision by the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia to formally recognise a Palestinian state, describing it as an attempt to “reward terror with an enormous prize.”
In a strongly worded statement, Netanyahu said, “I have a clear message to those leaders who are recognizing a Palestinian state after the horrendous October 7 massacre: you are rewarding terror with an enormous prize. It’s not going to happen. There will be no Palestinian state to the west of the Jordan River.”
The prime minister vowed that Israel would respond after his return from the United States and reiterated his government’s policy of preventing the creation of a Palestinian state. “For years I have prevented the creation of that terror state, against tremendous pressure, both domestic and from abroad. We have done this with determination and astute statesmanship. Moreover, we have doubled Jewish settlement in Judea and Samaria, and we will continue on this path,” he said.
Global Push for Two-State Solution
Netanyahu’s remarks came as France and Saudi Arabia prepared to host a high-level summit in New York on Monday to gather support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Dozens of world leaders are expected to participate, and additional countries are reportedly considering recognition of Palestinian statehood.
Both Israel and the United States are boycotting the summit. Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon dismissed the meeting as a “circus,” adding, “We don’t think it’s helpful. We think it’s actually rewarding terrorism.” The US administration has also warned of possible consequences for nations taking diplomatic measures against Israel.
War and Ceasefire Discussions Continue
The summit comes as Israel intensifies its ground offensive in Gaza City amid the nearly two-year-long war. Ceasefire negotiations are underway, with international pressure mounting to end hostilities.
Earlier this month, the UN General Assembly endorsed the New York Declaration, a seven-page document outlining “tangible, timebound, and irreversible steps” towards a two-state solution. The declaration condemns Hamas, calls for its disarmament, and demands the release of hostages.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stressed that the declaration is “not a vague promise for the distant future, but a roadmap” that prioritises a ceasefire, humanitarian aid access, and a plan for post-conflict governance in Gaza.
