Netanyahu Rejects Palestinian Statehood Ahead of Critical UN Vote

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to oppose any Palestinian state. He made the declaration just before a crucial UN Security Council vote. The vote concerns a US-drafted resolution for Gaza.

Netanyahu faces intense international pressure to show flexibility. His long-standing position is that a Palestinian state would reward Hamas. The US proposal, however, opens the door for future Palestinian self-determination.

US Resolution and International Stance

The Security Council is set to vote on the US proposal. It calls for an international stabilization force in Gaza. The plan has faced opposition from Russia, China, and some Arab nations.

According to Reuters, the US revised its resolution with stronger language on Palestinian self-determination. It now references a “credible pathway” to statehood. A rival Russian proposal uses even more direct language supporting Palestinian independence.

Rising Tensions in the West Bank

The political stalemate coincides with a surge of violence in the West Bank. Palestinian health officials report a 19-year-old man was killed by Israeli fire. This marks the seventh such death in two weeks.

Netanyahu called the settler violence the work of a small minority. However, Palestinian and human rights groups disagree. They argue the attacks are widespread and occur with impunity from the government.

The UN recorded over 260 settler attacks in October alone. This is the highest monthly total since 2006. US officials have expressed concern this violence could undermine peace efforts in Gaza.

The firm Israeli stance sets the stage for a difficult diplomatic confrontation. The international community largely sees a two-state solution as the only viable long-term path. This leaves Netanyahu’s government increasingly isolated on the world stage.

Thought you’d like to know-

What does the US resolution propose for Gaza?

The US draft resolution proposes an international stabilization force. It also leaves open a credible pathway to future Palestinian statehood. The plan calls for Gaza to be demilitarized.

How have Hamas and Palestinian factions reacted?

They have issued a joint statement rejecting the US proposal. They call it an attempt to impose an international mandate biased toward Israel. The groups insist any force must be under direct UN supervision.

What is the international community’s general view?

Most world powers see a two-state solution as the only realistic long-term resolution. The creation of a Palestinian state alongside Israel is widely supported as the path to enduring peace.

Why is there a spike in West Bank violence?

A surge in attacks by Jewish settlers has been documented. The UN Human Rights Commission reported a dramatic increase in October. Palestinians accuse the Israeli government of allowing impunity.

What is Netanyahu’s main argument against a Palestinian state?

He asserts it would be a reward for Hamas terrorism. He believes it would eventually lead to a larger Hamas-run state on Israel’s border. This position has not changed, despite external pressure.