Netanyahu
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly criticized leaders who have recognized a Palestinian state, calling it a “shameful capitulation to Palestinian terror”. Ahead of his trip to the United States, where he will meet with President Donald Trump and address the UN General Assembly, Netanyahu emphasized that these recognitions “do not obligate Israel in any way”.
Netanyahu’s remarks came after France led a special summit on the sidelines of the General Assembly, which saw several Western governments recognize the State of Palestine against the backdrop of the nearly two-year Gaza war. “I will condemn those leaders who, instead of condemning the murderers, rapists and burners of children, want to give them a state in the heart of Israel. This will not happen,” Netanyahu said.
During his meeting with President Trump, Netanyahu plans to discuss the great opportunities that Israel’s victories have brought, as well as the need to complete the goals of the war. These goals include bringing back all Israeli hostages, defeating Hamas, and expanding the circle of peace that has opened up to Israel. “At the General Assembly, I will speak our truth — the truth of the citizens of Israel, the truth of the Israeli soldiers, the truth of our nation,” Netanyahu said at Ben Gurion airport ahead of his departure.
US envoy Steve Witkoff expressed hope for a breakthrough related to Gaza in the coming days, citing Trump’s 21-point plan for peace in the Middle East and Gaza. “We presented what we call the Trump 21-point plan for peace in the Mideast and Gaza,” Witkoff said. “I think it addresses Israeli concerns as well as the concerns of all the neighbours in the region.” Witkoff added that they are hopeful and confident that a breakthrough can be announced soon.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with recent Israeli air strikes resulting in significant casualties. An Israeli air strike on a home where displaced people had taken refuge in central Gaza killed at least 11 people. The military has been carrying out a ground assault on Gaza City, forcing hundreds of thousands of people to flee.
