JERUSALEM. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday dismissed U.S. appeals to reduce the military offensive in Gaza or consider a Palestinian state post-war. The disagreement highlights a growing divide between the two allies on the scope of Israel’s war and the future of the region.
White House National Security Spokesperson John Kirby expressed disagreement, stating, “We obviously see it differently.”
Netanyahu’s comments came a day after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that Israel’s genuine security required a pathway to Palestinian independence. The White House had earlier suggested it was the “right time” for Israel to ease the intensity of its military campaign in Gaza.
In a televised news conference, Netanyahu maintained a defiant stance, asserting that Israel would continue its offensive until achieving the goals of dismantling Gaza’s Hamas militant group and securing the release of all remaining hostages. He rejected criticism that these objectives were unattainable, pledging to persist for months, insisting on “nothing short of absolute victory.”
The conflict began following an unprecedented cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7, resulting in 1,200 casualties and approximately 250 hostages. Israel believes around 130 hostages are still held by Hamas, and the war’s repercussions have raised tensions across the region.
The international community, initially offering widespread support, has increasingly called for a halt to the offensive. The U.S., initially a staunch ally, has expressed concerns and urged Netanyahu to outline his postwar vision for Gaza.
While the U.S. advocates for revitalizing the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority and steps toward a Palestinian state, Netanyahu, leading a far-right government, reiterated his opposition to a two-state solution. He argued that a Palestinian state could become a launching pad for attacks on Israel, emphasizing the need for security control over the entire territory west of the Jordan River.
The disagreement prompted a swift response from the White House, with Kirby stating that President Joe Biden remains committed to working toward a two-state solution.
Divisions have also emerged within Israeli society over Netanyahu’s handling of the war, with families of hostages and their supporters calling for a new ceasefire. Questions about the feasibility of Netanyahu’s objectives have surfaced amid international criticism and slow progress in the offensive.
Critics accuse Netanyahu of delaying discussions on postwar scenarios to sidestep investigations, maintain his coalition, and postpone elections. Recent polls indicate a decline in Netanyahu’s popularity during the war, with the Prime Minister currently facing corruption charges in an ongoing trial.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
