Netanyahu Defies Biden's Position on Palestinian State
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has openly rebuffed US President Joe Biden's suggestion regarding the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Despite Biden's hope for a two-state solution even with Netanyahu at the helm, the Israeli leader reaffirmed his long-standing policy against it.
Netanyahu insists that Israel must maintain security control over all territories west of the Jordan River, which includes Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank, as a safeguard against threats.
This stance has created a clear divergence between Israel and the US, who views a two-state setup as essential for lasting peace in the region.
UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps has expressed disappointment over Netanyahu's remarks, which have seemingly diminished any optimism for renewed Israeli-Palestinian peace talks amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.
The domestic situation in Israel remains tense, with widespread support for the military campaign against Hamas, contrasted by protests demanding the release of hostages taken during a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7.
With close to 1,300 people, mostly civilians, killed and 240 individuals captured by Hamas, public pressure is mounting on Netanyahu to negotiate their release.
Israeli military operations continue in southern Gaza, targeting Hamas leaders believed to be in hiding. The Israeli Defense Forces report searching and raiding tunnels, though no hostages were found.
As Israel's military, with its superior capabilities, confronts persistent resistance from Hamas, the Gaza Health Ministry has reported substantial casualties since the conflict's escalation, with over 25,000 fatalities and 60,000 injuries.