Washington: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday that a Palestinian state will not be established under US President Donald Trump's proposed Gaza plan. In a video statement, Netanyahu emphasized that during talks in Washington, he did not consent to the establishment of a Palestinian state, and it is not included in Trump's plan.
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu expressed strong opposition to the idea of a Palestinian state, reiterating his stance during the discussions. He described his visit to the US as 'historic' and 'excellent,' emphasizing that the plan has shifted the international dynamics concerning Hamas.
Netanyahu highlighted that instead of Hamas isolating Israel, the tables have turned, with global pressure mounting on Hamas, including from the Arab and Muslim world, to comply with the terms set jointly by Israel and President Trump. The terms include the release of all hostages, both living and deceased, while the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continue to control most of the Gaza Strip.
Furthermore, Netanyahu noted that President Trump assured full support to Israel should Hamas refuse the plan, including backing for a complete military operation against the group.
On another note, Qatar announced that Hamas received the proposed plan from mediators late Monday, following the unveiling of Trump's 20-point plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza. This plan, revealed during a press conference with Netanyahu at the White House, outlines the release of Israeli captives in return for Palestinian prisoners, disarmament of Hamas, a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the establishment of a technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee to govern Gaza.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 66,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, since October 2023. The continuous Israeli military actions have devastated the Gaza Strip, leading to severe humanitarian crises including starvation and the outbreak of diseases.