Israeli Knesset Overwhelmingly Votes Against Unilateral Recognition of Palestinian State
Israel’s Knesset on Wednesday voted overwhelmingly against the unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, with 99 members in favor and nine opposed, out of a total of 120, reinforcing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s position that any resolution regarding Palestinians must come from direct negotiations without preconditions.
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The parliamentary measure articulated Israel’s rejection of international pressures for a permanent settlement with the Palestinians and the establishment of a Palestinian state. It emphasized that such a settlement, if any, should result exclusively from direct talks between the involved parties. The measure also highlighted Israel’s stance against the unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, especially in the aftermath of the October 7th massacre, asserting that such recognition would not only reward terrorism but also hinder any prospects for peace.
Prime Minister Netanyahu hailed the vote as a monumental victory, showcasing unprecedented unity within the Knesset against international dictates on the establishment of a Palestinian state. Opposition leader Yair Lapid, despite supporting the measure, criticized Netanyahu for what he described as inventing threats and deflecting from other pressing issues facing the nation, such as conscription law and budget concerns. Arab Israeli lawmaker Ayman Odeh expressed pride in the Palestinian people, advocating against the notion of yielding to oppression.
