Israeli media reports claim several Arab leaders have privately urged US President Donald Trump to reconsider his support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reportedly viewing Netanyahu's government as an obstacle to broader Middle East diplomatic efforts. The reports come as discussions continue over Trump's regional plans and Israel's upcoming elections. Meanwhile, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has called for progress on normalising ties with Saudi Arabia, expressing hope for closer relations with Riyadh. Saudi Arabia had paused normalisation talks with Israel following the Gaza war and has maintained that any agreement depends on progress toward establishing an independent Palestinian state.

Israel-Saudi peace deal back in focus | Arab leaders raise concerns over Netanyahu

The United States on Sunday (Sep 21) called the recognition of a Palestinian state by several of its key allies — including Britain, Australia, and Canada — "performative." This comes as, days earlier, US President Donald Trump, after talks with UK PM Keir Starmer, had called Palestinian recognition “one of our few disagreements.”<h2>What did the US say?</h2>Speaking to news agency AFP, a US State Department spokesperson, while addressing the recent recognition of a Palestinian state by Britain, Australia, Canada, and Portugal, said that America's "focus remains on serious diplomacy, not performative gestures."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-recognise-palestine-today-despite-israel-slamming-move-as-rewarding-terrorism-was-the-move-delayed-by-trump-visit-1758428851590">UK to recognise Palestine today despite Israel slamming move as 'rewarding terrorism'. Was it delayed by Trump's visit?</a>"Our priorities are clear: the release of the hostages, the security of Israel, and peace and prosperity for the entire region that is only possible free from Hamas," said the State Department personnel while speaking on condition of anonymity.<h2>Palestinians hail move, Netanyahu says Palestinian state would never exist</h2>Meanwhile, Palestinians in war-ravaged Gaza hailed the move as a long overdue affirmation of their existence, even as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that a Palestinian state would never be allowed to emerge.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-forgotten-oct-7-uk-reform-leader-nigel-farage-slams-pm-keir-starmer-over-recognition-of-palestinian-state-1758478320253">Nigel Farage slams PM Keir Starmer over recognition of Palestinian state</a>“It will not happen. No Palestinian state will be established west of the Jordan River,” Netanyahu said in a televised address, denouncing the recognition push as “absurd” and a danger to Israel’s survival. He vowed instead to expand Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, which Israel has controlled since 1967 in defiance of international law.While the UK and Canada are the first members of the G7 to take the step, three-quarters of UN member states already recognise Palestine. At least 145 of the 193 member countries have done so, according to an AFP tally. &nbsp;

The United States has dismissed the recognition of a Palestinian state by its allies, including Britain, Australia, and Canada, as "performative gestures." 

The United States on Sunday (Sep 21) called the recognition of a Palestinian state by several of its key allies — including Britain, Australia, and Canada — "performative." This comes as, days earlier, US President Donald Trump, after talks with UK PM Keir Starmer, had called Palestinian recognition “one of our few disagreements.” What did the US say? Speaking to news agency AFP, a US State Department spokesperson, while addressing the recent recognition of a Palestinian state by Britain, Australia, Canada, and Portugal, said that America's "focus remains on serious diplomacy, not performative gestures." Also read | UK to recognise Palestine today despite Israel slamming move as 'rewarding terrorism'. Was it delayed by Trump's visit? "Our priorities are clear: the release of the hostages, the security of Israel, and peace and prosperity for the entire region that is only possible free from Hamas," said the State Department personnel while speaking on condition of anonymity. Palestinians hail move, Netanyahu says Palestinian state would never exist Meanwhile, Palestinians in war-ravaged Gaza hailed the move as a long overdue affirmation of their existence, even as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that a Palestinian state would never be allowed to emerge. Also read | Nigel Farage slams PM Keir Starmer over recognition of Palestinian state “It will not happen. No Palestinian state will be established west of the Jordan River,” Netanyahu said in a televised address, denouncing the recognition push as “absurd” and a danger to Israel’s survival. He vowed instead to expand Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, which Israel has controlled since 1967 in defiance of international law. While the UK and Canada are the first members of the G7 to take the step, three-quarters of UN member states already recognise Palestine. At least 145 of the 193 member countries have done so, according to an AFP tally.

The United States has dismissed the recognition of a Palestinian state by its allies, including Britain, Australia, and Canada, as "performative gestures."

US State Department labels recognition of Palestinian state by UK and other allies 'performative': Report

Ahead of the start of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session next week that will see many Western countries recognising the "state of Palestine", the Palestinian ambassador to India, Abdallah M Abu Shawesh, has termed the action coming "late". Many western countries like France, the UK, Canada, and Australia have announced that they will recognise the Palestinian state during the week of the 80th UN General Assembly (UNGA) session that begins on September 22nd, coinciding with the "2 state solution conference", co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France.&nbsp;Speaking to WION, the Ambassador said, "'We expect western countries to recognise us, they came late. The UK came very late, ' but added, "but recognition is an important step. He explained that the recognition will "build step by step, a legal framework for our state".&nbsp;Around 149 countries recognise Palestine, and the upcoming announcements by Western states are aimed at advancing Palestinian statehood amid the Gaza crisis and hoping to halt the Israeli offensive in the strip that started after the Hamas terror attack of October 2023. Asked how hopeful he is on the emergence of the "state of Palestine", he said, "We have hope, we are on the right side of history, and he is 100% confident".&nbsp;The ambassador slammed the US for denying visa entry/revoking visas for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and other members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Palestinian Authority (PA), thus impacting the leadership's presence at the UNGA session. He termed the action "illegal" and pointed out how, in 1988, the US banned Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat from attending the UNGA session, and the session took place at the United Nations in Geneva. That year, UNGA voted 151-2 (U.S. and Israel against, UK abstaining) to hold a special session in Geneva, where Arafat could attend without US visa restrictions.&nbsp;Asked about India's policy on Palestine, he said, "we get support from lot of people in India", and that "India was the first non-Arab and non-Muslim state in 1988 to recognise Palestine. It is running number of projects in Palestine, especially west bank needed for daily life". He added, "India is very heavy political power...they can help Palestine people. India gives all the space, to listen to us".&nbsp;India advocates for a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state living side by side with Israel in peace, within secure and recognized borders. It has also provided significant aid to Palestine, including financial contributions to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), capacity-building programs, and budgetary support to the Palestinian Authority. Historically, India has supported Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations.

Around 149 countries recognise Palestine, and the upcoming announcements by Western states are aimed at advancing Palestinian statehood amid the Gaza crisis and hoping to halt the Israeli offensive in the strip that started after the Hamas terror attack of October 2023.

Ahead of the start of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session next week that will see many Western countries recognising the "state of Palestine", the Palestinian ambassador to India, Abdallah M Abu Shawesh, has termed the action coming "late". Many western countries like France, the UK, Canada, and Australia have announced that they will recognise the Palestinian state during the week of the 80th UN General Assembly (UNGA) session that begins on September 22nd, coinciding with the "2 state solution conference", co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France. Speaking to WION, the Ambassador said, "'We expect western countries to recognise us, they came late. The UK came very late, ' but added, "but recognition is an important step. He explained that the recognition will "build step by step, a legal framework for our state". Around 149 countries recognise Palestine, and the upcoming announcements by Western states are aimed at advancing Palestinian statehood amid the Gaza crisis and hoping to halt the Israeli offensive in the strip that started after the Hamas terror attack of October 2023. Asked how hopeful he is on the emergence of the "state of Palestine", he said, "We have hope, we are on the right side of history, and he is 100% confident". The ambassador slammed the US for denying visa entry/revoking visas for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and other members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Palestinian Authority (PA), thus impacting the leadership's presence at the UNGA session. He termed the action "illegal" and pointed out how, in 1988, the US banned Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat from attending the UNGA session, and the session took place at the United Nations in Geneva. That year, UNGA voted 151-2 (U.S. and Israel against, UK abstaining) to hold a special session in Geneva, where Arafat could attend without US visa restrictions. Asked about India's policy on Palestine, he said, "we get support from lot of people in India", and that "India was the first non-Arab and non-Muslim state in 1988 to recognise Palestine. It is running number of projects in Palestine, especially west bank needed for daily life". He added, "India is very heavy political power...they can help Palestine people. India gives all the space, to listen to us". India advocates for a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state living side by side with Israel in peace, within secure and recognized borders. It has also provided significant aid to Palestine, including financial contributions to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), capacity-building programs, and budgetary support to the Palestinian Authority. Historically, India has supported Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations.

Around 149 countries recognise Palestine, and the upcoming announcements by Western states are aimed at advancing Palestinian statehood amid the Gaza crisis and hoping to halt the Israeli offensive in the strip that started after the Hamas terror attack of October 2023.

Western recognition for Palestinian State late but important step, says Palestine Ambassador Shawesh

India voted in favour of the New York Declaration, a United Nations resolution that supports the creation of an independent Palestinian state. India joined 142 countries in backing the motion at the UN General Assembly on Friday, while 10 voted against and 12 abstained. The declaration, officially titled The New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, calls for urgent action to end the war in Gaza and push forward the long-stalled two-state solution.

India has supported Palestinian statehood for long and was the first non-Arab country to officially recognise Palestine in 1988.The resolution also condemned the terror group Hamas for its attacks on Israeli civilians on 7 October 2023 and urged it to release all hostages and hand over weapons. It stated that Hamas must end its control over Gaza and allow the Palestinian Authority to take over governance, with the support of the international community.&nbsp;WATCH: NATO Eastern Flank Under Pressure As Russia Begins Zapad Drills<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-eastern-flank-under-pressure-as-russia-begins-zapad-drills-1757701262751/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-eastern-flank-under-pressure-as-russia-begins-zapad-drills-1757701262751/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The declaration also suggested the deployment of a temporary international stabilisation mission in Gaza, under UN Security Council authority, to protect civilians and help transfer responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority.The document was introduced by France and Saudi Arabia and had already been endorsed by the Arab League and 17 UN member states earlier this year.The vote comes ahead of a key UN summit in New York on September 22, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia. French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to use the occasion to formally recognise the Palestinian state. Other world leaders may follow suit.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said that there will be no Palestinian state under his leadership.&nbsp;<h2>US joins UNSC condemnation of Israeli strikes on Qatar</h2>&nbsp;The United Nations Security Council has condemned Israel’s strikes on a residential compound in the Qatari capital, Doha, which targeted senior members of Hamas.The statement, which did not directly name Israel, was backed by all 15 Security Council members, including the US, which traditionally blocks actions against its close ally.&nbsp;Qatar has played a key role in brokering diplomatic efforts to end the Israel-Gaza war, serving as a mediator of indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel. Qatar has hosted the Hamas political bureau since 2012 and is a close US ally.

The resolution also condemned terror group Hamas for its attacks on Israeli civilians on 7 October 2023 and urged it to release all hostages and hand over weapons. It stated that Hamas must end its control over Gaza and allow the Palestinian Authority to take over governance.

India voted in favour of the New York Declaration, a United Nations resolution that supports the creation of an independent Palestinian state. India joined 142 countries in backing the motion at the UN General Assembly on Friday, while 10 voted against and 12 abstained. The declaration, officially titled The New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, calls for urgent action to end the war in Gaza and push forward the long-stalled two-state solution.

The resolution also condemned terror group Hamas for its attacks on Israeli civilians on 7 October 2023 and urged it to release all hostages and hand over weapons. It stated that Hamas must end its control over Gaza and allow the Palestinian Authority to take over governance.

India joins 142 nations in backing UN declaration, votes for Palestinian state

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected French President Emmanuel Macron's request for a state visit to Israel ahead of France's recognition of a Palestinian state later this month at the United Nations General Assembly, Hebrew media reported.<h2>Why did Netanyahu turn down Macron’s request?</h2>Macron wanted to make a short trip to Tel Aviv ahead of the UNGA session, where France is expected to join other Western nations in unilaterally recognising a Palestinian state. Netanyahu, however, said he would only allow the visit if France withdrew the planned motion, a proposal rejected by the French leader.“Macron sent a message to Netanyahu saying he wanted to come, but Netanyahu replied that under the current circumstances it was not the right time,” Former French-Israeli lawmaker Meyer Habib told Israeli media.&nbsp; Another Israeli official told the Hebrew network Kan public broadcaster, "We will not allow Macron to have it both ways.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-will-end-trump-issues-big-warning-to-hamas-amid-netanyahu-s-gaza-plan-asks-all-hostages-to-be-released-1756927053676">'IT WILL END': Trump issues BIG warning to Hamas</a>The disagreement soon reached social media. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar criticised Macron directly on X, accusing him of being more concerned about visas for senior Palestinian Authority officials than about Palestinian incitement and payments to convicted attackers.“President Macron is very concerned about visas for senior Palestinian Authority officials. That’s what keeps him up at night. He doesn’t protest the rampant incitement in the PA’s education system against Israel and Jews. Nor does he oppose salaries for terrorists and their families,” Sa’ar wrote.He accused Macron of meddling in a conflict he is “not a part of”, claiming the French leader’s approach “undermines regional stability and drags the Middle East and the international system toward unilateral moves. His actions are dangerous, they will not bring peace.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frustrated-with-putin-trump-lashes-out-at-reporter-says-sanctions-on-india-cost-russia-billions-warns-phase-two-phase-three-yet-to-come-1756954174649">Frustrated with Putin, Trump says sanctions on India cost Russia billions</a><h2>France defends its role in the peace effort</h2>French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot pushed back against Sa’ar’s criticism, insisting Macron’s initiative had secured major concessions. “Without getting into our disagreements over the Palestinian issue, this is very unfair, dear Gideon. President Macron achieved unprecedented commitments from the Palestinian Authority with his initiative,” he said.Barrot added that France also gained “unprecedented commitments from the Arab States and Turkey, who, in the New York declaration adopted in July, endorsed the disarmament and exclusion of Hamas, the creation of a stabilisation mission to manage the ‘day after’ in Gaza, normalisation and the establishment of a regional security architecture with Israel.”“There is an alternative to this endless war, and it is our responsibility as a permanent member of the UNSC, with citizen and security interests in the region, to propose it,” he added.

Israeli PM Netanyahu rejected Macron’s request to visit Tel Aviv, demanding France drop its planned recognition of a Palestinian state. Macron refused, prompting Israel to block the visit.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected French President Emmanuel Macron's request for a state visit to Israel ahead of France's recognition of a Palestinian state later this month at the United Nations General Assembly, Hebrew media reported. Why did Netanyahu turn down Macron’s request? Macron wanted to make a short trip to Tel Aviv ahead of the UNGA session, where France is expected to join other Western nations in unilaterally recognising a Palestinian state. Netanyahu, however, said he would only allow the visit if France withdrew the planned motion, a proposal rejected by the French leader. “Macron sent a message to Netanyahu saying he wanted to come, but Netanyahu replied that under the current circumstances it was not the right time,” Former French-Israeli lawmaker Meyer Habib told Israeli media. Another Israeli official told the Hebrew network Kan public broadcaster, "We will not allow Macron to have it both ways.” Also read: 'IT WILL END': Trump issues BIG warning to Hamas The disagreement soon reached social media. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar criticised Macron directly on X, accusing him of being more concerned about visas for senior Palestinian Authority officials than about Palestinian incitement and payments to convicted attackers. “President Macron is very concerned about visas for senior Palestinian Authority officials. That’s what keeps him up at night. He doesn’t protest the rampant incitement in the PA’s education system against Israel and Jews. Nor does he oppose salaries for terrorists and their families,” Sa’ar wrote. He accused Macron of meddling in a conflict he is “not a part of”, claiming the French leader’s approach “undermines regional stability and drags the Middle East and the international system toward unilateral moves. His actions are dangerous, they will not bring peace.” Also read: Frustrated with Putin, Trump says sanctions on India cost Russia billions France defends its role in the peace effort French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot pushed back against Sa’ar’s criticism, insisting Macron’s initiative had secured major concessions. “Without getting into our disagreements over the Palestinian issue, this is very unfair, dear Gideon. President Macron achieved unprecedented commitments from the Palestinian Authority with his initiative,” he said. Barrot added that France also gained “unprecedented commitments from the Arab States and Turkey, who, in the New York declaration adopted in July, endorsed the disarmament and exclusion of Hamas, the creation of a stabilisation mission to manage the ‘day after’ in Gaza, normalisation and the establishment of a regional security architecture with Israel.” “There is an alternative to this endless war, and it is our responsibility as a permanent member of the UNSC, with citizen and security interests in the region, to propose it,” he added.

Israeli PM Netanyahu rejected Macron’s request to visit Tel Aviv, demanding France drop its planned recognition of a Palestinian state. Macron refused, prompting Israel to block the visit.

'Macron can't have it both ways': Netanyahu blocks French president's Israel visit over Palestinian state recognition row

US President Donald Trump has said that Canada’s intention to recognise a Palestinian state is not a “deal-breaker” for a potential trade deal between the two countries, despite expressing clear disapproval of the move. “You know, I didn’t like what they said. But you know, that’s, that’s their opinion. I didn’t like that; not a deal-breaker,” Trump said in response to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement.Carney said on Wednesday that Canada would move to recognise Palestinian statehood in September, citing the “intolerable” level of human suffering in Gaza. However, the decision would depend on Hamas being excluded from the Palestinian Authority’s 2026 elections and a full demilitarisation of the future Palestinian state.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-human-suffering-in-gaza-is-intolerable-after-france-and-uk-canada-to-recognise-palestine-state-says-pm-carney-1753911682887">'Human suffering in Gaza is intolerable': After France and UK, Canada to recognise Palestine state, says PM Carney</a><h2>Canada, UK and France plan symbolic recognition of Palestine</h2>Canada joins France and the United Kingdom in planning to back Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Though largely symbolic, these moves are seen as part of growing diplomatic pressure on Israel amid worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. All three countries stressed that Hamas must be excluded from any future Palestinian leadership and that a ceasefire and disarmament are necessary steps.<h2>Trump lashes out but doubles down on Israel support</h2>Despite showing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Trump continues to stand firmly with Israel. On Monday, he acknowledged that there is “real starvation” in the territory but maintains that recognising a Palestinian state at this time would only reward Hamas, the group behind the October 2023 attacks on Israel.“Wow! Canada has just announced that it is backing statehood for Palestine. That will make it very hard for us to make a Trade Deal with them. Oh’ Canada!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Wednesday night. A 35% tariff on Canadian goods is set to come into effect tomorrow, although it is unclear whether this will be enforced or used as leverage in negotiations.<h2>White House: Allies are ‘rewarding Hamas’</h2>The Trump administration has taken a harder stance on the decisions by Canada, France, and the UK, accusing them of undermining efforts to end the war. “The president expressed his displeasure and his disagreement with the leaders of France, the United Kingdom and Canada,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday.“He feels as though that’s rewarding Hamas at a time where Hamas is the true impediment to a ceasefire and to the release of all of the hostages,” she added. Western leaders backing Palestinian statehood have said they are doing so in response to the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza and that Hamas must not be allowed to participate in any future government.<h2>Trump’s long-running jabs at Canada</h2>Since returning to office, Trump has frequently mocked Canada, often referring to it as the “51st state.” He has also called former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau “Governor Trudeau” and threatened to annex the country during past disputes. Despite his latest criticism, Trump appears reluctant to let Canada’s decision block a trade deal outright, though tensions between the two countries remain high.&nbsp;

Trump disagrees with Canada’s plan to recognise Palestinian statehood but says it won’t affect a potential trade deal. Canada’s recognition depends on Hamas' exclusion and full demilitarisation of a future state.

US President Donald Trump has said that Canada’s intention to recognise a Palestinian state is not a “deal-breaker” for a potential trade deal between the two countries, despite expressing clear disapproval of the move. “You know, I didn’t like what they said. But you know, that’s, that’s their opinion. I didn’t like that; not a deal-breaker,” Trump said in response to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement. Carney said on Wednesday that Canada would move to recognise Palestinian statehood in September, citing the “intolerable” level of human suffering in Gaza. However, the decision would depend on Hamas being excluded from the Palestinian Authority’s 2026 elections and a full demilitarisation of the future Palestinian state. Also read: 'Human suffering in Gaza is intolerable': After France and UK, Canada to recognise Palestine state, says PM Carney Canada, UK and France plan symbolic recognition of Palestine Canada joins France and the United Kingdom in planning to back Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Though largely symbolic, these moves are seen as part of growing diplomatic pressure on Israel amid worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. All three countries stressed that Hamas must be excluded from any future Palestinian leadership and that a ceasefire and disarmament are necessary steps. Trump lashes out but doubles down on Israel support Despite showing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Trump continues to stand firmly with Israel. On Monday, he acknowledged that there is “real starvation” in the territory but maintains that recognising a Palestinian state at this time would only reward Hamas, the group behind the October 2023 attacks on Israel. “Wow! Canada has just announced that it is backing statehood for Palestine. That will make it very hard for us to make a Trade Deal with them. Oh’ Canada!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Wednesday night. A 35% tariff on Canadian goods is set to come into effect tomorrow, although it is unclear whether this will be enforced or used as leverage in negotiations. White House: Allies are ‘rewarding Hamas’ The Trump administration has taken a harder stance on the decisions by Canada, France, and the UK, accusing them of undermining efforts to end the war. “The president expressed his displeasure and his disagreement with the leaders of France, the United Kingdom and Canada,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday. “He feels as though that’s rewarding Hamas at a time where Hamas is the true impediment to a ceasefire and to the release of all of the hostages,” she added. Western leaders backing Palestinian statehood have said they are doing so in response to the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza and that Hamas must not be allowed to participate in any future government. Trump’s long-running jabs at Canada Since returning to office, Trump has frequently mocked Canada, often referring to it as the “51st state.” He has also called former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau “Governor Trudeau” and threatened to annex the country during past disputes. Despite his latest criticism, Trump appears reluctant to let Canada’s decision block a trade deal outright, though tensions between the two countries remain high.

Trump disagrees with Canada’s plan to recognise Palestinian statehood but says it won’t affect a potential trade deal. Canada’s recognition depends on Hamas' exclusion and full demilitarisation of a future state.

‘Didn’t like that, but not a deal-breaker’: Trump criticises Canada’s plan to recognise Palestinian state, but says it won’t derail trade talks

The Trump administration strongly criticised a UN conference co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia aimed at promoting a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, calling it “unproductive and ill-timed.” The US State Department said, “This is a publicity stunt that comes in the middle of delicate diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.” It added, “Far from promoting peace, the conference will prolong the war, embolden Hamas, and reward its obstruction and undermine real-world efforts to achieve peace.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-said-no-trump-says-he-rejected-epstein-s-island-invite-calls-scandal-a-hoax-1753724363790">‘I said no’: Trump says he rejected Epstein’s island invite, calls it a ‘hoax’</a><h2>US says conference undermines Gaza ceasefire efforts</h2>US officials repeated the remarks made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had called similar two-state initiatives “a slap in the face to the victims of October 7.” Although the US is refusing to participate in the UN conference, it stated that it will continue working independently to promote peace in the region.<h2>Macron’s recognition of Palestine draws US ire</h2>The US also criticised French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent decision to recognise a Palestinian state, which is seen by Washington as harmful to ongoing peace talks. The statement noted that Hamas welcomed Macron’s move, a reaction that the US sees as evidence that the step may have emboldened militants. Macron’s decision was also backed by the Palestinian Authority, which has long supported a two-state solution alongside Israel.But Washington warned that Macron’s gesture “reflects a pattern of counterproductive gestures that only embolden Hamas, encourage its obstruction of a ceasefire, and greatly undercut our diplomatic efforts to end the suffering in Gaza, free the hostages, and move the whole Middle East towards a brighter and more prosperous future.”<h2>Why is the US quiet on Saudi Arabia?</h2>Despite Saudi Arabia co-hosting the UN event and reportedly playing a role in Macron’s decision, the US avoided any direct criticism of Riyadh. President Trump has maintained close ties with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has pledged large-scale investments in the US.The statement made no mention of the Saudi role in the talks, nor did it take a clear stance on the broader two-state solution, a position the Trump administration has carefully avoided, even as Israel takes steps that appear to reject&nbsp;the&nbsp;framework.

The Trump administration condemned a UN conference on the Israeli-Palestinian two-state solution, calling it unproductive, ill-timed, and a stunt that could empower Hamas and hinder genuine peace efforts.

The Trump administration strongly criticised a UN conference co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia aimed at promoting a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, calling it “unproductive and ill-timed.” The US State Department said, “This is a publicity stunt that comes in the middle of delicate diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.” It added, “Far from promoting peace, the conference will prolong the war, embolden Hamas, and reward its obstruction and undermine real-world efforts to achieve peace.” Also read: ‘I said no’: Trump says he rejected Epstein’s island invite, calls it a ‘hoax’ US says conference undermines Gaza ceasefire efforts US officials repeated the remarks made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had called similar two-state initiatives “a slap in the face to the victims of October 7.” Although the US is refusing to participate in the UN conference, it stated that it will continue working independently to promote peace in the region. Macron’s recognition of Palestine draws US ire The US also criticised French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent decision to recognise a Palestinian state, which is seen by Washington as harmful to ongoing peace talks. The statement noted that Hamas welcomed Macron’s move, a reaction that the US sees as evidence that the step may have emboldened militants. Macron’s decision was also backed by the Palestinian Authority, which has long supported a two-state solution alongside Israel. But Washington warned that Macron’s gesture “reflects a pattern of counterproductive gestures that only embolden Hamas, encourage its obstruction of a ceasefire, and greatly undercut our diplomatic efforts to end the suffering in Gaza, free the hostages, and move the whole Middle East towards a brighter and more prosperous future.” Why is the US quiet on Saudi Arabia? Despite Saudi Arabia co-hosting the UN event and reportedly playing a role in Macron’s decision, the US avoided any direct criticism of Riyadh. President Trump has maintained close ties with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has pledged large-scale investments in the US. The statement made no mention of the Saudi role in the talks, nor did it take a clear stance on the broader two-state solution, a position the Trump administration has carefully avoided, even as Israel takes steps that appear to reject the framework.

The Trump administration condemned a UN conference on the Israeli-Palestinian two-state solution, calling it unproductive, ill-timed, and a stunt that could empower Hamas and hinder genuine peace efforts.

‘A slap in the face’: US slams France’s ‘ill-timed’ push for Palestinian state, stays silent on Saudi role

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday (July 24) announced that France will formally recognise an independent state of Palestine during the United Nations General Assembly meeting in September. The move makes France the first G7 country to take this step, setting it apart from key Western allies including the United States and the United Kingdom.Also read: '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hamas-acted-in-selfish-way-israel-recalls-negotiators-us-walks-away-from-gaza-talks-what-went-wrong-1753380607841">Hamas acted in selfish way': Israel recalls negotiators, US walks away from Gaza talks - What went wrong?</a><h2>Macron says there is “no alternative”</h2>Macron posted on X that “the urgent need today is to end the war in Gaza and to rescue the civilian population.” In a letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron affirmed France’s decision, calling it a key step toward peace in the Middle East. “There is no alternative,” he wrote.He also reiterated France’s support for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages, humanitarian aid for Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and long-term development for a Palestinian state.<h2>Israel hits out at Macron’s announcement</h2>The move drew sharp criticism from Israeli leaders. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy, just as Gaza became.” He added, “A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launchpad to annihilate Israel, not to live in peace beside it.”Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the decision as “a disgrace” and “a surrender to terror.” Far-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich went further, urging Israel to respond by formally annexing the West Bank.<h2>Palestinian leaders welcome France’s support</h2>Palestinian leaders praised Macron’s decision. Hamas called it a “positive step” toward justice and self-determination. Palestinian Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh wrote on X that France’s recognition reflects “France’s commitment to international law and its support for the Palestinian people’s rights to self-determination.” Macron’s decision came in response to a letter sent by Abbas weeks ago, in which he condemned the 7 October Hamas attacks, supported disarming Hamas, and pledged reforms and elections by 2026.The announcement arrives ahead of an international conference in New York, organised by France and Saudi Arabia, focused on reviving the two-state solution. Saudi officials have said they hope the summit will lead more countries to follow France’s lead.So far, over 140 nations, including Russia, China, India, and most of the Global South, already recognise Palestine. France’s move could push other European countries to do the same.Meanwhile, the war in Gaza has left more than 59,500 dead, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Israel launched its military campaign after Hamas-led fighters killed over 1,200 people in southern Israel and took 250 hostages on 7 October 2023.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September, becoming the first G7 nation to do so. Macron called the move essential for Middle East peace.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday (July 24) announced that France will formally recognise an independent state of Palestine during the United Nations General Assembly meeting in September. The move makes France the first G7 country to take this step, setting it apart from key Western allies including the United States and the United Kingdom. Also read: 'Hamas acted in selfish way': Israel recalls negotiators, US walks away from Gaza talks - What went wrong? Macron says there is “no alternative” Macron posted on X that “the urgent need today is to end the war in Gaza and to rescue the civilian population.” In a letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron affirmed France’s decision, calling it a key step toward peace in the Middle East. “There is no alternative,” he wrote. He also reiterated France’s support for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages, humanitarian aid for Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and long-term development for a Palestinian state. Israel hits out at Macron’s announcement The move drew sharp criticism from Israeli leaders. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy, just as Gaza became.” He added, “A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launchpad to annihilate Israel, not to live in peace beside it.” Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the decision as “a disgrace” and “a surrender to terror.” Far-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich went further, urging Israel to respond by formally annexing the West Bank. Palestinian leaders welcome France’s support Palestinian leaders praised Macron’s decision. Hamas called it a “positive step” toward justice and self-determination. Palestinian Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh wrote on X that France’s recognition reflects “France’s commitment to international law and its support for the Palestinian people’s rights to self-determination.” Macron’s decision came in response to a letter sent by Abbas weeks ago, in which he condemned the 7 October Hamas attacks, supported disarming Hamas, and pledged reforms and elections by 2026. The announcement arrives ahead of an international conference in New York, organised by France and Saudi Arabia, focused on reviving the two-state solution. Saudi officials have said they hope the summit will lead more countries to follow France’s lead. So far, over 140 nations, including Russia, China, India, and most of the Global South, already recognise Palestine. France’s move could push other European countries to do the same. Meanwhile, the war in Gaza has left more than 59,500 dead, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Israel launched its military campaign after Hamas-led fighters killed over 1,200 people in southern Israel and took 250 hostages on 7 October 2023.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognise a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September, becoming the first G7 nation to do so. Macron called the move essential for Middle East peace.

'Surrender to terror': France to become first G7 nation to recognise Palestine, Israel slams decision

In a move denounced by Israel as a "reward" for Hamas, Spain and Norway moved to formally recognise a Palestinian state with Ireland to follow suit on Tuesday. The three European nations think that their move has a powerful symbolic impact and will probably inspire other governments to take similar action.

In a move denounced by Israel as a "reward" for Hamas, Spain and Norway moved to formally recognise a Palestinian state with Ireland to follow suit on Tuesday. The three European nations think that their move has a powerful symbolic impact and will probably inspire other governments to take similar action. On the other hand, Denmark's parliament voted down a bill to recognise a Palestinian state on Tuesday Before calling a cabinet meeting, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated, "Recognition of the State of Palestine is not only a matter of historic justice... It is also an essential requirement if we are all to achieve peace." The action was "not against anyone, least of all Israel," Sanchez added. "It is the only way to move towards the solution that we all recognise as the only possible way to achieve a peaceful future -- that of a Palestinian state living side-by-side with the state of Israel in peace and security," Sanchez added. Furthermore, according to Sanchez, the decision was a reflection of Spain's "outright rejection of Hamas, which is against the two-state solution" and whose actions on October 7 sparked the Gaza War. Last week, the three countries' prime ministers made a synchronised declaration outlining their objectives. Also read: Israel-Hamas war LIVE: IDF tanks reach central Rafah as 1mn people flee Gaza city Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said that it was "an important moment." He said that it sends "a signal to the world is that there are practical actions you can take as a country to help keep the hope... of a two-state solution alive." How did Israel react to this decision? Israel has reacted sharply to the decision, which has further strained its relations with Spain. Yolanda Diaz, Sanchez's far-left deputy, applauded the action last week, adding, "We cannot stop." Israel's envoy in Madrid blasted the statement as a "clear call for the elimination of Israel" and declared that "Palestine will be free from the river to the sea." "Sanchez, as long as you don't fire your deputy and you recognise a Palestinian state, you are participating in the incitement to commit genocide and war crimes against the Jewish people," Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz wrote on X on Tuesday. Where does the European Union stand? Recognising Palestinian statehood has sparked a heated debate between the European Union's 27 member nations. Formal Palestinian state recognition has long been viewed as the final stage of Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations. Following Tuesday, 145 of the 193 members of the UN officially acknowledged Palestinian statehood. The first EU member to recognise a state for Palestine was Sweden in 2014. Afterward, six other European nations, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Romania made the same move. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognise Palestinian statehood as Israel fumes

Israel announced on Friday (May 24) that it will stop work of the Spanish consulate for Palestinians. In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said, "I have decided to cut the connection between the diplomatic representation of Spain in Israel and the Palestinians and prohibit the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem from providing services to Palestinians in Judea and Samaria.

Israel announced on Friday (May 24) that it will stop work of the Spanish consulate for Palestinians. In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said, "I have decided to cut the connection between the diplomatic representation of Spain in Israel and the Palestinians and prohibit the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem from providing services to Palestinians in Judea and Samaria." Katz said the step was taken following Spain's plan to formally recognise a Palestinian state. Apart from Spain, Ireland and Norway also announced their plans to recognise a Palestinian state. Also read | Biden's clean chit to Israel? US president says war in Gaza 'not genocide' The three European countries said they wanted to help secure a halt to Israel's devastating Gaza offensive and revive peace talks that stalled a decade ago. Israel reprimands Irish, Spanish, and Norwegian envoys On Thursday, the Israeli government reprimanded the ambassadors of Ireland, Norway and Spain over their plans to recognise the Palestinian state. Addressing a press conference, government spokesperson Avi Hyman said that recognising a Palestinian state does not promote peace, but "perpetuates war." "Any kind of so-called solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that compromises Israel's security does not mean peace. There will be zero compromise on our security," Hyman told reporters. Tras el reconocimiento por parte de España de un Estado palestino y el llamado antisemita de la Vicepresidenta del Gobierno español a no conformarse con reconocer un Estado palestino "y liberar Palestina desde el río hasta el mar", he decidido cortar la conexión entre la… — ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) May 24, 2024 × "Other than the October 7th massacre, what exactly has changed in the Palestinian Authority to warrant this prize? They continue with their policy of pay for slaying, they continue to educate their children to hate, they still haven't held an election in 19 years," Hyman added. The Israeli government spokesperson pointed out that the Palestinian Authority had still not condemned Hamas' October 7 attack. "So what is this Palestinian state that you recognised? It is simply a public declaration that spits in the face of the Israeli people, while we fight a war for our very survival, against the genocidal forces that surround us," he further said. ICJ to rule on South Africa's Gaza ceasefire bid today Meanwhile, on Friday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will rule on a request by South Africa to order Israel to implement a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × South Africa has petitioned the ICJ for emergency measures to order Israel to cease its military operations in Gaza including in Rafah, where it is pressing an offensive. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel will stop work of Spanish consulate for Palestinians

Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (May 22) slammed some Western nations for the recognition of the State of Palestine, calling the move a "reward for terror". Netanyahu's remarks came after Ireland, Spain and Norway announced that they will formally recognise a Palestinian state on May 28. The United States President Joe Biden also opposed "unilateral recognition" of a Palestinian state.&nbsp;

The announcement by prime ministers Jonas Gahr Store of Norway, Pedro Sanchez of Spain and Simon Harris of Ireland came after recent development when the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor said he would seek arrest warrants for Israel's prime minister and Hamas leaders.&nbsp;

Spanish PM also asked for support from other states to recognise the Palestinian State. He said the move would reinforce efforts to revive a two-state solution to the West Asian conflict.&nbsp;

"Fighting the Hamas terrorist group is legitimate and necessary after October 7, but Netanyahu is causing so much pain, destruction and resentment in Gaza and the rest of Palestine that the two-state solution is in danger," Sanchez told parliament.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-general-elections-to-be-held-in-july-reports-724367">UK PM Rishi Sunak calls general election for July 4</a>&nbsp;

<h2>'Reward for terror'&nbsp;</h2>

In the immediate aftermath, Israel recalled its ambassadors from Dublin, Madrid and Oslo. It also withheld vital funds from the Palestinian Authority.&nbsp;

In a statement, Netanyahu said, "The intention of several European countries to recognise a Palestinian state is a reward for terror."&nbsp;

He added that a sovereign State of Palestine would be a "terror state" that would "try to repeatedly carry out the massacre of October 7th".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-denies-us-claim-that-moscow-deployed-anti-satellite-weapon-in-space-724258">Russia denies US claim that Moscow deployed anti-satellite weapon in space</a>&nbsp;

<h2>PLO hails the move&nbsp;</h2>

Despite Israel's fury, the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) hailed the move as "historic". Hamas called it an "important step" that resulted from the "brave resistance" of Palestinians.&nbsp;

According to the Palestinian Authority, which rules parts of the occupied West Bank, 142 of the 193 UN members already recognise a Palestinian state.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;European trio recognises Palestinian state | US: Russia launched Space weapon

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<h2>Biden opposes 'unilateral recognition'&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The White House said Wednesday that Biden opposes "unilateral recognition" of a Palestinian state. &nbsp;

Biden "believes a Palestinian state should be realized through direct negotiations between the parties, not through unilateral recognition," National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (May 22) slammed some Western nations for the recognition of the State of Palestine, calling the move a "reward for terror".

Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (May 22) slammed some Western nations for the recognition of the State of Palestine, calling the move a "reward for terror". Netanyahu's remarks came after Ireland, Spain and Norway announced that they will formally recognise a Palestinian state on May 28. The United States President Joe Biden also opposed "unilateral recognition" of a Palestinian state. The announcement by prime ministers Jonas Gahr Store of Norway, Pedro Sanchez of Spain and Simon Harris of Ireland came after recent development when the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor said he would seek arrest warrants for Israel's prime minister and Hamas leaders. Spanish PM also asked for support from other states to recognise the Palestinian State. He said the move would reinforce efforts to revive a two-state solution to the West Asian conflict. "Fighting the Hamas terrorist group is legitimate and necessary after October 7, but Netanyahu is causing so much pain, destruction and resentment in Gaza and the rest of Palestine that the two-state solution is in danger," Sanchez told parliament. Also read: UK PM Rishi Sunak calls general election for July 4 'Reward for terror' In the immediate aftermath, Israel recalled its ambassadors from Dublin, Madrid and Oslo. It also withheld vital funds from the Palestinian Authority. In a statement, Netanyahu said, "The intention of several European countries to recognise a Palestinian state is a reward for terror." He added that a sovereign State of Palestine would be a "terror state" that would "try to repeatedly carry out the massacre of October 7th". Also read: Russia denies US claim that Moscow deployed anti-satellite weapon in space PLO hails the move Despite Israel's fury, the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) hailed the move as "historic". Hamas called it an "important step" that resulted from the "brave resistance" of Palestinians. According to the Palestinian Authority, which rules parts of the occupied West Bank, 142 of the 193 UN members already recognise a Palestinian state. Watch: European trio recognises Palestinian state | US: Russia launched Space weapon × Biden opposes 'unilateral recognition' The White House said Wednesday that Biden opposes "unilateral recognition" of a Palestinian state. Biden "believes a Palestinian state should be realized through direct negotiations between the parties, not through unilateral recognition," National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

US opposes recognition of Palestinian state, Israel calls it ‘reward for terror’

The Israeli cabinet unanimously approved a statement rejecting all “international dictates” seeking to push Palestinian statehood, which it termed as equivalent to a “massive and&nbsp;unprecedented prize for terror” that would prevent any future peace deal.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 18) said that his government would vote on a "declaratory decision" about Israel's resistance to the imposition of Palestinian independence by force.

At the start of the weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said that this move comes after "recent talk in the international community about an attempt to unilaterally impose on Israel a Palestinian state."

He said the formal statement would reflect that, "Israel rejects outright international dictates regarding a permanent arrangement with the Palestinians. Such an arrangement can only be reached in direct negotiations between the sides, without preconditions."&nbsp;

"Israel will continue to oppose a unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Such a recognition, following the massacre of October 7, will give terrorism a huge reward, a reward like no other, and will prevent any future peace agreement," the Israeli prime minister said.

The ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, which&nbsp;raged&nbsp;after Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, is the latest in the conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians that have reverberated for over seven decades and destabilised the Middle East.

Since 2014, attempts to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel in the West Bank and Gaza have been stalled.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prospects-for-new-pause-in-gaza-war-not-promising-qatar-691370">Prospects for new pause in Gaza war not promising: Qatar</a>

United States President Joe Biden has been attempting to broker a more comprehensive agreement that would see the establishment of a Palestinian state in addition to Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations restoring diplomatic relations with Israel.

<h2>US threatens to veto ceasefire proposal at UNSC for third time</h2>

Meanwhile, the US has signalled it would veto an Algerian push at the UN Security Council (UNSC) to demand an urgent ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

The vote at the 15-member body is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Feb 20) and the draft of the proposal was put forward two weeks ago. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the text could sabotage ongoing “sensitive negotiations” aimed at hammering out a peace deal.

For Algeria’s proposal to get adopted, at least nine members need to vote in favour, in addition to no vetoes by the permanent members—the US, UK, China, Russia and France.

“The United States does not support action on this draft resolution. Should it come up for a vote as drafted, it will not be adopted,” Thomas-Greenfield says in a statement Saturday.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli cabinet unanimously approved a statement rejecting all “international dictates” seeking to push Palestinian statehood, which it termed as equivalent to a “massive and unprecedented prize for terror” that would prevent any future peace deal.

The Israeli cabinet unanimously approved a statement rejecting all “international dictates” seeking to push Palestinian statehood, which it termed as equivalent to a “massive and unprecedented prize for terror” that would prevent any future peace deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 18) said that his government would vote on a "declaratory decision" about Israel's resistance to the imposition of Palestinian independence by force. At the start of the weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said that this move comes after "recent talk in the international community about an attempt to unilaterally impose on Israel a Palestinian state." He said the formal statement would reflect that, "Israel rejects outright international dictates regarding a permanent arrangement with the Palestinians. Such an arrangement can only be reached in direct negotiations between the sides, without preconditions." "Israel will continue to oppose a unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Such a recognition, following the massacre of October 7, will give terrorism a huge reward, a reward like no other, and will prevent any future peace agreement," the Israeli prime minister said. The ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, which raged after Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel on Oct 7, is the latest in the conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians that have reverberated for over seven decades and destabilised the Middle East. Since 2014, attempts to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel in the West Bank and Gaza have been stalled. Also read: Prospects for new pause in Gaza war not promising: Qatar United States President Joe Biden has been attempting to broker a more comprehensive agreement that would see the establishment of a Palestinian state in addition to Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations restoring diplomatic relations with Israel. US threatens to veto ceasefire proposal at UNSC for third time Meanwhile, the US has signalled it would veto an Algerian push at the UN Security Council (UNSC) to demand an urgent ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The vote at the 15-member body is scheduled to take place on Tuesday (Feb 20) and the draft of the proposal was put forward two weeks ago. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the text could sabotage ongoing “sensitive negotiations” aimed at hammering out a peace deal. For Algeria’s proposal to get adopted, at least nine members need to vote in favour, in addition to no vetoes by the permanent members—the US, UK, China, Russia and France. “The United States does not support action on this draft resolution. Should it come up for a vote as drafted, it will not be adopted,” Thomas-Greenfield says in a statement Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli cabinet rejects ‘unilateral’ recognition of Palestinian state, terms offer a ‘prize for terror’

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Wednesday (Jan 10) amid escalating tensions in West Asia.&nbsp;

During his crucial tour, Blinken pushed to limit the spread of ongoing war. He also pressed Israel's leaders to offer a pathway to a Palestinian state.&nbsp;

Blinken told Abbas that Washington supports "tangible steps" towards the creation of a Palestinian state, reiterating America's longstanding position that a Palestinian state must stand alongside Israel.&nbsp;

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement that "with both living in peace and security".&nbsp;

Palestinian statehood was expected during the Oslo Accords of the 1990s, but talks have been stalled for years.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-blinken-tells-netanyahu-to-avoid-further-civilian-harm-in-gaza-678383">Blinken tells Netanyahu to avoid 'further civilian harm' in Gaza</a>&nbsp;

Blinken's visit and his remarks show how the US is trying to end the war and civilian casualties, but the Israeli government has shown no interest in reviving negotiations.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Palestinian leadership remains split between the Palestinian Authority, headed by Abbas, and Hamas, which rules Gaza.&nbsp;

The official Palestinian news agency Wafa said that according to Abbas, the Gaza Strip is "an integral part of the Palestinian state".&nbsp;

"It is not possible to accept or deal with the plans of the occupation authorities to separate it, or cut off any part of it," the Palestinian leader told Blinken.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-secret-hospitalisation-of-us-defense-secretary-llyod-austin-678603">The secret hospitalisation of US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin</a>&nbsp;

Discussions over Gaza's post-war governance have been ongoing for weeks, despite Israel's warning that the combat will likely last months.&nbsp;

Wafa reported that the Palestinian president also raised "efforts made to stop the Israeli aggression against Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank".&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Blinken urges Israel to make 'hard choices'&nbsp;

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<h2>Palestinians protest amid Blinken's visit&nbsp;</h2>

The Times of Israel reported that hundreds of Palestinians protested against Blinken's visit. They marched through the streets of Ramallah.&nbsp;

The protesters were holding up signs saying "Blinken you are not welcome here". Palestinian Authority security forces dispersed the protests.&nbsp;

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A protest march in Ramallah, Palestine, rejecting the visit of US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. <a href="https://t.co/bOyHcaZeJZ">pic.twitter.com/bOyHcaZeJZ</a>
— Darine (@Darineeli) <a href="https://twitter.com/Darineeli/status/1745029922496696564?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Death toll update&nbsp;</h2>

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Wednesday at least 23,357 people have been killed in more than three months of war between the Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel.&nbsp;

The toll includes 147 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, while 59,410 people have been wounded across the Palestinian territory since the war erupted on October 7.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Wednesday (Jan 10) amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Wednesday (Jan 10) amid escalating tensions in West Asia. During his crucial tour, Blinken pushed to limit the spread of ongoing war. He also pressed Israel's leaders to offer a pathway to a Palestinian state. Blinken told Abbas that Washington supports "tangible steps" towards the creation of a Palestinian state, reiterating America's longstanding position that a Palestinian state must stand alongside Israel. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement that "with both living in peace and security". Palestinian statehood was expected during the Oslo Accords of the 1990s, but talks have been stalled for years. Also read: Blinken tells Netanyahu to avoid 'further civilian harm' in Gaza Blinken's visit and his remarks show how the US is trying to end the war and civilian casualties, but the Israeli government has shown no interest in reviving negotiations. Meanwhile, the Palestinian leadership remains split between the Palestinian Authority, headed by Abbas, and Hamas, which rules Gaza. The official Palestinian news agency Wafa said that according to Abbas, the Gaza Strip is "an integral part of the Palestinian state". "It is not possible to accept or deal with the plans of the occupation authorities to separate it, or cut off any part of it," the Palestinian leader told Blinken. Also read: The secret hospitalisation of US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Discussions over Gaza's post-war governance have been ongoing for weeks, despite Israel's warning that the combat will likely last months. Wafa reported that the Palestinian president also raised "efforts made to stop the Israeli aggression against Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank". Watch: Blinken urges Israel to make 'hard choices' × Palestinians protest amid Blinken's visit The Times of Israel reported that hundreds of Palestinians protested against Blinken's visit. They marched through the streets of Ramallah. The protesters were holding up signs saying "Blinken you are not welcome here". Palestinian Authority security forces dispersed the protests. A protest march in Ramallah, Palestine, rejecting the visit of US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. pic.twitter.com/bOyHcaZeJZ — Darine (@Darineeli) January 10, 2024 × Death toll update The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said Wednesday at least 23,357 people have been killed in more than three months of war between the Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel. The toll includes 147 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, while 59,410 people have been wounded across the Palestinian territory since the war erupted on October 7. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

US backs 'tangible steps' for Palestinian state, Blinken tells Abbas

Jordan`s King Abdullah expressed concern on Sunday over a decision by Washington to recognise Jerusalem as Israel`s capital, saying East Jerusalem had to be the capital of a future Palestinian state.&nbsp;

In remarks during talks with U.S. Vice Mike Pence in Amman, the king said the only solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was a two-state one.

Jordan lost East Jerusalem and the West Bank to Israel during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war.

U.S. endorsement of Israel&rsquo;s claim to Jerusalem as its capital broke with decades of U.S. policy that the city&rsquo;s status must be decided in negotiations with the Palestinians, who want East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state.

King Abdullah said the U.S. move would fuel radicalism and inflame Muslim and Christian tensions.

&quot;For us, Jerusalem is key to Muslims and Christians, as it is to Jews. It is key to peace in the region and key to enabling Muslims to effectively fight some of our root causes of radicalisation,&quot; he said.

King Abdullah said the U.S. move would fuel radicalism and inflame Muslim and Christian tensions.

Jordan`s King Abdullah expressed concern on Sunday over a decision by Washington to recognise Jerusalem as Israel`s capital, saying East Jerusalem had to be the capital of a future Palestinian state. In remarks during talks with U.S. Vice Mike Pence in Amman, the king said the only solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was a two-state one. Jordan lost East Jerusalem and the West Bank to Israel during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war. U.S. endorsement of Israel’s claim to Jerusalem as its capital broke with decades of U.S. policy that the city’s status must be decided in negotiations with the Palestinians, who want East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. King Abdullah said the U.S. move would fuel radicalism and inflame Muslim and Christian tensions. "For us, Jerusalem is key to Muslims and Christians, as it is to Jews. It is key to peace in the region and key to enabling Muslims to effectively fight some of our root causes of radicalisation," he said.

Jordan's king says East Jerusalem must be capital of Palestinian state

Arab states will soon embark on a diplomatic drive to persuade the United Nations to recognise a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital on territory captured by Israel in the 1967 war, Jordan&#39;s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said.

Six Arab foreign ministers met in Amman on Saturday to follow up on earlier decisions taken by the Arab League to counter US&nbsp;President Donald Trump&#39;s move in December to recognise Jerusalem as Israel&#39;s capital, a decision that overturned decades of US&nbsp;policy on the Middle East.

A committee made up of Egypt, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Palestinians and headed by Jordan was set up after an emergency meeting of the Arab League in Cairo shortly after Trump&#39;s decision that called on Washington to abandon its decision.

The Arab League said at the time the move would spur violence throughout the region and described Trump&#39;s announcement as a &quot;dangerous violation of international law&quot; which had no legal impact.

Safadi said the ministers would recommend a series of moves to a full ministerial meeting of the Arab League due later this month.&nbsp;

&quot;We will confront the decision by seeking a (UN) resolution, an international one, to recognise a Palestinian state on 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital,&quot; said Safadi.

He did not elaborate on the timing of the diplomatic moves nor say whether he was referring to a UN&nbsp;Security Council or General Assembly resolution.

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said the ministerial meeting would also discuss Washington&#39;s role in future Arab-Israeli peacemaking that members states said was now jeopardised by what they see as US&nbsp;bias towards Israel.

&quot;We want to lessen any losses on the Palestinian side and lessen the Israeli gains,&quot; Aboul Gheit added.

Arab states would also discuss whether to convene an extraordinary summit of their leaders or wait until a scheduled summit in the Saudi capital Riyadh at the end of March, he added.&nbsp;

Trump&rsquo;s recognition of Jerusalem has infuriated the Arab world and upset Western allies, who say it is a blow to peace efforts and risks sparking more violence in the region.

Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as the capital of a future state. Israel regards Jerusalem as its eternal and indivisible capital.

Most countries consider East Jerusalem, which Israel annexed after capturing it from Jordan in a 1967 war, to be occupied territory, and say the status of the city should be decided at future Israeli-Palestinian talks.

On December 18, the United States blocked a United Nations Security Council call for Trump&#39;s declaration on Jerusalem to be withdrawn.

Three days later, more than 120 countries defied Trump and voted in favour of a United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for the United States to drop its recognition of Jerusalem as Israel&#39;s capital.

In 2012, the UN&nbsp;General Assembly overwhelmingly approved the de facto recognition of the sovereign state of Palestine in a resolution that said the status of Jerusalem should be resolved through negotiations.&nbsp;

Arab states will persuade the United Nations to recognise Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital on territory captured by Israel in the 1967 war

Arab states will soon embark on a diplomatic drive to persuade the United Nations to recognise a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital on territory captured by Israel in the 1967 war, Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said. Six Arab foreign ministers met in Amman on Saturday to follow up on earlier decisions taken by the Arab League to counter US President Donald Trump's move in December to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a decision that overturned decades of US policy on the Middle East. A committee made up of Egypt, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Palestinians and headed by Jordan was set up after an emergency meeting of the Arab League in Cairo shortly after Trump's decision that called on Washington to abandon its decision. The Arab League said at the time the move would spur violence throughout the region and described Trump's announcement as a "dangerous violation of international law" which had no legal impact. Safadi said the ministers would recommend a series of moves to a full ministerial meeting of the Arab League due later this month. "We will confront the decision by seeking a (UN) resolution, an international one, to recognise a Palestinian state on 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital," said Safadi. He did not elaborate on the timing of the diplomatic moves nor say whether he was referring to a UN Security Council or General Assembly resolution. Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said the ministerial meeting would also discuss Washington's role in future Arab-Israeli peacemaking that members states said was now jeopardised by what they see as US bias towards Israel. "We want to lessen any losses on the Palestinian side and lessen the Israeli gains," Aboul Gheit added. Arab states would also discuss whether to convene an extraordinary summit of their leaders or wait until a scheduled summit in the Saudi capital Riyadh at the end of March, he added. Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem has infuriated the Arab world and upset Western allies, who say it is a blow to peace efforts and risks sparking more violence in the region. Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as the capital of a future state. Israel regards Jerusalem as its eternal and indivisible capital. Most countries consider East Jerusalem, which Israel annexed after capturing it from Jordan in a 1967 war, to be occupied territory, and say the status of the city should be decided at future Israeli-Palestinian talks. On December 18, the United States blocked a United Nations Security Council call for Trump's declaration on Jerusalem to be withdrawn. Three days later, more than 120 countries defied Trump and voted in favour of a United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for the United States to drop its recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. In 2012, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly approved the de facto recognition of the sovereign state of Palestine in a resolution that said the status of Jerusalem should be resolved through negotiations.

Arab League to lobby UN to recognise Palestinian state

US Secretary of State John Kerry on Sunday accused right-wing Israelis of deliberately thwarting efforts to broker a peace deal with the Palestinians.

In unusually stark terms, Washington&#39;s top diplomat warned that Israeli settlement building was undermining any hope of an agreement to allow two states to live side-by-side.

At the Saban Forum, an annual gathering of senior Israeli and US policymakers, Kerry said some members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&#39;s government had made &quot;profoundly disturbing&quot; statements.

&quot;And more than 50 per cent of the ministers in the current government have publicly stated they are opposed to a Palestinian state and that there will be no Palestinian state,&quot; he said.

Earlier in the day, Netanyahu had addressed the forum via video link, arguing that Israeli settlement building was not an obstacle to peace.

Israel was ready for talks with no preconditions, he said, urging Arab governments to recognise the state of Israel.

However, Kerry dismissed the idea that more Arab states would strike peace deals with Israel without any moves towards an agreement with the Palestinians.

&quot;There will be no advance and separate peace with the Arab world without the Palestinian process and Palestinian peace,&quot; he said. &quot;Everybody needs to understand that. That is a hard reality.&quot;

In the US government&#39;s view, Israel&#39;s accelerated building on Palestinian-owned land is not only an obstacle to peace but deliberately so, Kerry added.

&quot;I&#39;m not here to tell you that the settlements are the reason for the conflict, no, they&#39;re not,&quot; Kerry said.

&quot;But I also cannot accept the notion that they don&#39;t affect the peace process, that they aren&#39;t a barrier to the capacity to have peace,&quot; he argued.&nbsp;

&quot;And I&#39;ll tell you why I know that: because the left in Israel is telling everybody they are a barrier to peace and the right that supports it openly supports it because they don&#39;t want peace.&quot;

US President Barack Obama&#39;s administration, which comes to an end next month with no prospect of a revived peace process, has been frustrated by the attitude of Netanyahu&#39;s government.

Still, Kerry insisted Israel has no greater friend than Washington. Since he arrived at the State Department in February 2013, he has spoken to Netanyahu on 375 formally recorded occasions for more than 130 hours of discussions, he said.

Washington has opposed all attempts to pressure Israel through votes on United Nations bodies, he added, and has just signed a 10-year $38 billion military support deal, the biggest in US history.

(AFP)

'More than 50% of the ministers in the current government have publicly stated they are opposed to a Palestinian state'

US Secretary of State John Kerry on Sunday accused right-wing Israelis of deliberately thwarting efforts to broker a peace deal with the Palestinians. In unusually stark terms, Washington's top diplomat warned that Israeli settlement building was undermining any hope of an agreement to allow two states to live side-by-side. At the Saban Forum, an annual gathering of senior Israeli and US policymakers, Kerry said some members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government had made "profoundly disturbing" statements. "And more than 50 per cent of the ministers in the current government have publicly stated they are opposed to a Palestinian state and that there will be no Palestinian state," he said. Earlier in the day, Netanyahu had addressed the forum via video link, arguing that Israeli settlement building was not an obstacle to peace. Israel was ready for talks with no preconditions, he said, urging Arab governments to recognise the state of Israel. However, Kerry dismissed the idea that more Arab states would strike peace deals with Israel without any moves towards an agreement with the Palestinians. "There will be no advance and separate peace with the Arab world without the Palestinian process and Palestinian peace," he said. "Everybody needs to understand that. That is a hard reality." In the US government's view, Israel's accelerated building on Palestinian-owned land is not only an obstacle to peace but deliberately so, Kerry added. "I'm not here to tell you that the settlements are the reason for the conflict, no, they're not," Kerry said. "But I also cannot accept the notion that they don't affect the peace process, that they aren't a barrier to the capacity to have peace," he argued. "And I'll tell you why I know that: because the left in Israel is telling everybody they are a barrier to peace and the right that supports it openly supports it because they don't want peace." US President Barack Obama's administration, which comes to an end next month with no prospect of a revived peace process, has been frustrated by the attitude of Netanyahu's government. Still, Kerry insisted Israel has no greater friend than Washington. Since he arrived at the State Department in February 2013, he has spoken to Netanyahu on 375 formally recorded occasions for more than 130 hours of discussions, he said. Washington has opposed all attempts to pressure Israel through votes on United Nations bodies, he added, and has just signed a 10-year $38 billion military support deal, the biggest in US history. (AFP)

Kerry accuses Israeli right of sabotaging peace process