JERUSALEM - Israeli President Isaac Herzog has expressed his opposition to a two-state solution in the aftermath of the recent conflict in Gaza. Speaking in an interview with The Associated Press, Herzog emphasized the importance of addressing the emotional trauma experienced by the nation before considering discussions on establishing an independent Palestinian state.

Herzog stated, "What I want to urge is against just saying two-state solution. Why? Because there is an emotional chapter here that must be dealt with. My nation is bereaving. My nation is in trauma." He emphasized the need to prioritize the emotional recovery and the demand for a comprehensive sense of security for all citizens before engaging in negotiations or dialogue with the Palestinians.

The Israeli president's remarks come ahead of a meeting with White House national security adviser, Jake Sullivan. The Biden administration has advocated for renewed efforts to restart negotiations for a two-state solution led by the Palestinian Authority following the recent conflict.

While Herzog's position is largely ceremonial, he was formerly the leader of Israel's Labor Party, which has traditionally supported a two-state solution. However, in the wake of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that triggered the war in Gaza, Israeli leaders have voiced opposition to resuming peace talks and have ruled out any involvement of the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority.

The Oct. 7 attack, which claimed the lives of 1,200 people and led to the hostage-taking of 240 others, prompted an immediate declaration of war by Israel. Over the course of weeks, Israeli forces carried out airstrikes and a ground offensive resulting in the deaths of over 18,000 Palestinians, as reported by the Health Ministry in the Hamas-controlled territory.

Amidst international calls for a ceasefire, Israel has reiterated its commitment to dismantling Hamas' military and political infrastructure before considering an end to the conflict. Herzog indicated that the Israeli campaign in northern Gaza could conclude within the coming weeks, but did not provide a specific timeline for the end of the war.

"We can see the end of that campaign, not far away in the next few weeks," Herzog stated, referring to the situation in the northern part of Gaza. He added that the campaign in the south would only conclude when Hamas was "completely eradicated."

As the Israeli president's remarks underscore the emotional toll of the conflict, the question of the future of peace negotiations remains uncertain. The stance of Israeli leaders against the resumption of talks, coupled with the ongoing military operations in Gaza, adds complexity to the already challenging path towards a potential two-state solution.

It remains to be seen how the Biden administration will navigate these complexities in the pursuit of renewed negotiations and long-term stability in the region.