We won’t allow establishment of Palestinian state – Netanyahu 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out the establishment of a Palestinian state, issuing a strong rebuke to Western nations that have formally recognised Palestinian sovereignty.

“I have a clear message for those leaders who recognise a Palestinian state after the horrific massacre on October 7: you are granting a huge reward to terror,” Netanyahu declared in a statement on Sunday.

“And I have another message for you: it will not happen. No Palestinian state will be established west of the Jordan River.”

His comments came shortly after Britain, Australia, and Canada jointly announced their recognition of a Palestinian state. The move made London and Ottawa the first G7 members to endorse Palestinian statehood, with France and other countries expected to follow suit during the UN General Assembly in New York this week.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer explained the decision, writing on X: “Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine.”

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also expressed support for the initiative, posting: “Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.”

The recognition marks a historic shift in decades of international debate, as Palestinians have long sought sovereignty. Portugal was also expected to join in announcing its recognition later on Sunday, further intensifying diplomatic pressure on Israel, which has faced growing scrutiny over its ongoing war in Gaza sparked by the Hamas-led assault of October 7, 2023.