In a press conference held on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it clear that he rejects the idea of creating an independent Palestinian nation after the fighting in the Gaza Strip ends. This stance has sparked fury among Democratic lawmakers, who have been advocating for a two-state solution as a key goal of the Biden administration's post-war plans in the region.

Netanyahu stated that Israel "needs security control over all territory" west of Jordan after the war, which he believes clashes with the concept of sovereignty. The prime minister's refusal to consider Washington's pleas for a two-state solution has led to growing frustration among Democratic representatives.

Senator Chris Van Hollen, who recently attended a meeting on the Middle East crisis with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other lawmakers, expressed his exasperation with Israel's leadership. He criticized Netanyahu for prioritizing the opinions of the right-wing extremists in his government over the President of the United States and the Biden administration. Van Hollen suggested that Biden should abandon "quiet diplomacy" and urge Netanyahu to reduce civilian casualties, while ensuring that U.S. military assistance is used in accordance with international law.

Van Hollen is leading an amendment to the national security supplemental to mandate U.S. military assistance recipients, including Israel, to use the weapons in accordance with U.S. law and international humanitarian law. The amendment has gained support from 18 Democratic co-sponsors. Another proposed amendment from Senator Tim Kaine aims to retain Congress' ability to review arms transfers to Israel, which would be waived under the national security supplemental.

Previously, lawmakers, including Democrats, had been largely supportive of Israel throughout its battle against the Hamas militant group. However, as Israel's military campaign continues in the Gaza Strip, displacing the majority of the population and resulting in numerous civilian casualties, Democrats have become increasingly critical of Israel's leadership. They are now urging President Joe Biden to exert more pressure on Netanyahu to de-escalate the situation.

Several Democratic representatives and senators have voiced their opposition to Netanyahu's rejection of a two-state solution. Senator Tammy Duckworth condemned the prime minister's remarks, stating that ruling out a sustainable, peaceful outcome in the long-term will not keep his country safe. A group of 15 Jewish House Democrats, including Representatives Jake Auchincloss, Adam Schiff, Jamie Raskin, and Elissa Slotkin, also expressed their disagreement with Netanyahu's stance.

While National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby assured reporters that the United States will continue working towards a two-state solution, Democratic lawmakers are concerned that Netanyahu's position is hindering negotiations for a national security package that includes aid to Israel. Senator Brian Schatz plans to offer an amendment in support of a two-state solution.

Netanyahu's rejection of a two-state solution has clearly ignited frustration among Democratic lawmakers who are eager to see progress towards lasting peace in the region. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how this disagreement will be resolved and what the implications will be for the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations.