Jerusalem (Rajeev Sharma): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly rejected the recognition of Palestine by the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, asserting there will be no Palestinian state west of the Jordan River. In a statement released by his office, Netanyahu accused the three countries of rewarding terrorism and pledged that Israel would respond after his return from the United States.
“There will be no Palestinian state. The response to the latest attempt to force upon us a terror state in the heart of our land will be given after my return from the United States,” Netanyahu said. He argued that recognizing Palestine in the aftermath of the October 7 massacre amounted to giving terrorism a major victory. Netanyahu also highlighted Israel’s ongoing settlement expansion in Judea and Samaria, affirming that the government would continue this policy with determination.
The three countries announced their recognition of Palestine on Sunday, framing it as a step toward achieving a two-state solution. Australia emphasized that the decision acknowledges Palestinian aspirations for sovereignty while stressing that Hamas must be dismantled. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the move, warning that it could destabilize the region and harm prospects for peace rather than advance them.
