Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected appeals from Western leaders to establish a Palestinian state, declaring that “it will not happen.” According to officials familiar with his remarks, Netanyahu reiterated that Jerusalem will not agree to the creation of an independent Palestinian state under its current security and political demands.
In conversations with foreign diplomats this week, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s view that such a state presents unacceptable threats to national security. He reportedly told Western figures that any proposal for Palestinian sovereignty would require preconditions, including disarmament of militant groups and recognition of Israel’s control over strategic territories.
The prime minister’s statements signal a sharp hardening of positions, and are likely to complicate efforts by international mediators seeking a two-state solution. Palestinian leaders have condemned Netanyahu’s remarks as “alarming” and “undermining peace prospects.”
