Netanyahu Reaffirms Opposition to Palestinian State Ahead of UN Vote on Gaza Resolution

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state, coinciding with an upcoming UN Security Council vote on a U.S.-drafted resolution concerning Gaza. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel's stance against Palestinian statehood remains unchanged, stating, "I do not need affirmations, tweets, or lectures from anyone."

The U.S.-drafted resolution proposes the creation of an international stabilization force in Gaza and suggests a potential pathway to Palestinian statehood. This proposal has faced opposition from Russia, China, and several Arab nations. Palestinian factions have criticized the resolution, viewing it as an attempt to impose an international mandate on Gaza that favors Israel and undermines Palestinian self-governance.

Netanyahu highlighted that the proposal calls for Gaza to be demilitarized and for Hamas to be disarmed, asserting, "Either this will happen the easy way, or it will happen the hard way."

In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, there has been a surge in violence, including attacks by Jewish settlers. Netanyahu described these incidents as the actions of a small minority. However, Palestinians and human rights organizations contend that the violence is widespread and accuse the government of overlooking these actions.

The UN has documented over 260 attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and their property in the West Bank in October, marking the highest monthly total since 2006.

The UN Security Council is expected to vote on the U.S.-drafted resolution, which has been revised to include stronger language regarding Palestinian self-determination. The outcome of this vote could have significant implications for the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.