Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a firm message to Western leaders on Sunday, stating clearly that there would be no Palestinian state.
His comments came in direct response to the decision by Britain, Australia, and Canada to formally recognise Palestinian statehood.
In a strongly worded statement, Netanyahu addressed the leaders of those nations, saying, “I have a clear message for those leaders who recognise a Palestinian state after the horrific massacre on October 7: you are granting a huge reward to terror.” He left no room for doubt about his position, adding, “And I have another message for you: it will not happen. No Palestinian state will be established west of the Jordan River.”
The move by Britain, Australia, and Canada marks a significant shift in Western policy. Britain and Canada became the first G7 nations to take this step, with France and other countries expected to follow during the United Nations General Assembly which opens on Monday in New York.
The announcements from Western leaders emphasised hopes for peace. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the recognition was made “to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution.” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney similarly expressed Canada’s recognition of the State of Palestine and offered partnership “in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.”
This long-awaited move follows decades of Palestinian requests for sovereignty and comes amid intense international pressure on Israel over the war in Gaza, which was triggered by the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Portugal also announced it would recognise Palestinian statehood later on Sunday.
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