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Netanyahu told Biden Gaza plans clash with ‘Palestinian sovereignty’, statement says

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convenes the weekly cabinet meeting at the Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv, Israel, January 7, 2024. REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun/Pool/File Photo 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to U.S. President Joe Biden’s comments regarding Palestinian statehood following the recent conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Biden, in a conversation with Netanyahu, discussed potential solutions for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, suggesting the possibility of a non-militarized government.

In response, Netanyahu emphasized his policy that, after dealing with Hamas, Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure it no longer poses a threat. This stance appears to contradict the demand for Palestinian sovereignty. The Israeli prime minister’s office released a statement underscoring this position but did not immediately clarify whether Netanyahu opposes all forms of Palestinian statehood.

Biden’s call with Netanyahu marked the first in nearly a month, according to the White House. When asked if a two-state solution was deemed “impossible” during Netanyahu’s term, Biden asserted that it was not. He mentioned that Netanyahu did not reject all two-state solutions, leaving room for various types.

While Netanyahu has not explicitly rejected Palestinian statehood, he articulated on Thursday that, irrespective of any agreement, Israel must maintain security control over the entire territory west of the Jordan River. This condition, although conflicting with the principle of sovereignty, was deemed necessary by Netanyahu.

Peace talks supported by the U.S. aimed at a “two-state solution,” envisioning coexistence between Israel and a Palestinian state in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, collapsed a decade ago.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller addressed the situation on Thursday, asserting that resolving Israel’s long-term security challenges and the short-term task of rebuilding Gaza would require the establishment of a Palestinian state. Miller also mentioned that Israel currently had an opportunity, as regional countries were prepared to offer security assurances.

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