Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed the recognition of a Palestinian state by Britain, Australia and Canada, insisting that no such state would be created.
Netanyahu, in a statement on Sunday, said those backing Palestinian statehood were “rewarding terror” in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.
“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,” he said.
“And I have another message for you: it will not happen. No Palestinian state will be established west of the Jordan River.”
Britain, Australia and Canada on Sunday jointly announced their recognition of the State of Palestine, with the UK and Canada becoming the first G7 countries to take the step. France and other nations are expected to follow during the United Nations General Assembly which opens on Monday in New York.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move was aimed at reviving hope for peace between Israelis and Palestinians through a two-state solution.
“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,” he posted on X.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also wrote on X: “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.”
Portugal was also expected to join the list of countries recognising Palestinian statehood on Sunday, as Israel comes under mounting international pressure over the Gaza war, now in its second year.