In a significant development, the Israeli parliament, known as the Knesset, overwhelmingly passed a resolution opposing the establishment of a Palestinian state. The resolution received support from 69 members, with only 9 voting in opposition.
During the session, members of the Central Left Party, led by opposition leader and former Prime Minister Yair Lapid, walked out, despite their party officially endorsing a two-state solution.
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The approved resolution argues that a Palestinian state would threaten Israel’s security and regional stability, exacerbating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Historically, the Knesset has consistently opposed the creation of a Palestinian state.
Hussein Al-Sheikh of the Palestinian Authority criticized the resolution on social media, condemning it as validation of Zionist racism and international law violations. He emphasized that approving the resolution perpetuates Israel’s policy of maintaining its illegal occupation indefinitely.
Similarly, Mustafa Barghouti, Secretary-General of a Palestinian faction, criticized the resolution’s approval, noting the lack of opposition from both government and opposition leaders, raising doubts about their intentions.
Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the resolution’s approval as a “dangerous” breach of international law.
The Oslo Accords of 1993 marked an initial agreement advocating for a viable, independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. However, Israel’s ongoing Jewish settlements in the West Bank and blockade of Gaza have consistently violated this agreement.
The Knesset’s approval of this resolution underscores the enduring complexities and challenges in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, despite international efforts to achieve a two-state solution.
