Israel's government unanimously voted on Sunday to reject any attempts by foreign powers, including the US and other members of the United Nations, to establish a Palestinian state once the war against Hamas concludes. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu introduced a proposal after a cabinet meeting that stated Israel "outright rejects" international pushes for a two-state solution. The declaration emphasized that any permanent settlement with the Palestinians must be achieved through direct negotiations between the involved parties, without preconditions. This decision aligns with Netanyahu's recent remarks describing the two-state solution as a "prize" for Hamas, pointing out that such recognition would be a significant reward for terrorism and hinder future peace settlements.

The rejection of a brokered Palestinian state is not limited to Israel, as even Hamas officials share the sentiment for different reasons. Senior Palestinian terror-group official Khaled Mashal expressed opposition to the two-state solution last month, citing the group's desire to expand Palestinian territory and eliminate the existence of Israel. Despite pressure from the US and its Middle Eastern allies, such as Saudi Arabia, to pursue a two-state solution for stability in the region, Netanyahu adamantly asserts that Israel will not allow foreign powers to dictate post-war outcomes in Gaza. The Israeli prime minister advocates for the Jewish state to lead the demilitarization of the Palestinian enclave independently.

The declaration comes amid decades of failed proposals for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians, with discussions on forming a state alongside Israel having been stalled since 2014. The rejection of international calls for a Palestinian state reflects Israel's stance on maintaining sovereignty over its own decision-making process in the region.