Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear he does not support the creation of a Palestinian state. His statement came just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a proposed ceasefire plan for Gaza. Speaking to the media, Netanyahu said he had not agreed with Trump on the issue of Palestinian statehood. He added that the peace deal contains no mention of a future Palestinian state.
Netanyahu emphasized that Israel remains firmly opposed to Palestinian statehood. He said, “One thing is clear—we will strongly oppose any form of Palestinian state.” He also stated that Israeli forces would remain in control of most areas in Gaza. This comes despite growing global pressure for a two-state solution. Netanyahu’s remarks raise doubts about how far the ceasefire plan can go toward lasting peace.
Read more: Trump’s peace plan gains Erdogan’s support, Gaza future in balance
In a separate development, Netanyahu apologized to Qatar for a recent Israeli airstrike on Doha. According to Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, the apology came through a direct phone call. Netanyahu made the call while he was visiting the White House for talks with Trump. The airstrike had sparked criticism from Qatari officials and regional observers. The apology is seen as a rare diplomatic step during ongoing tensions.
The original ceasefire proposal, announced by Trump alongside Netanyahu, includes key goals. It suggests a ceasefire, hostage-prisoner exchange, Israeli withdrawal in stages, and Hamas disarmament. The plan has received public support from several Muslim countries, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey. These nations welcomed the effort to stop the bloodshed in Gaza and rebuild the region.
Read more: Accept peace or face war: Netanyahu’s stark warning to Hamas
However, with Netanyahu now distancing himself from Palestinian statehood, the path forward remains uncertain. Hamas has not officially responded to the deal. While the international community pushes for peace, Israel’s firm stance may become a major obstacle. As tensions remain high, the region waits to see what Hamas—and the rest of the world—will do next.