In a strong rebuke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Senate Democrats expressed their concerns on Thursday about Netanyahu's opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state. The prime minister's remarks have raised questions about the future of bipartisan negotiations in the Senate, particularly in relation to a supplemental package that includes military aid for Israel, immigration measures, and aid for Ukraine.

Leading the charge against Netanyahu's stance, Senator Chris Murphy, the Democrats' top negotiator on the package, warned that the prime minister's comments could complicate efforts to secure Democratic support. Murphy stated that Netanyahu's opposition to a Palestinian state does not help in convincing skeptics of its viability. He emphasized the importance of gathering enough Democratic votes to pass the package.

Progressive senators who have previously criticized Israel's military actions in Gaza also openly questioned the decision to provide aid to Israel. Senator Elizabeth Warren, a member of the Armed Services Committee, emphasized the official U.S. government policy of supporting two nations for two people. She called into question the U.S. support for the Netanyahu government if it opposes this principle.

Senator Peter Welch had strong words for Netanyahu, highlighting his willingness to accept U.S. financial aid while rejecting advice from American lawmakers. Welch expressed concern over Netanyahu's disregard for the loss of Palestinian lives and suggested that his remarks could escalate tensions regarding U.S. aid to Israel.

Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq war veteran and member of the Armed Services Committee, expressed her dismay at Netanyahu's comments, stating that a two-state solution is crucial for peace in the region. She also noted that Netanyahu's position did not align with the majority of his own population.

Joining in the criticism, Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii accused Netanyahu of making the situation worse at every opportunity. Schatz announced that he would introduce an amendment supporting a two-state solution as part of the supplemental package.

Netanyahu's remarks were in response to efforts by U.S. lawmakers and diplomats to revive a potential treaty between Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the U.S. to end the war in Gaza and establish some form of Palestinian self-governance. The Israeli prime minister rejected the notion of Palestinian sovereignty, citing Israeli security concerns as the primary reason.

Despite the backlash from Senate Democrats, Republican lawmakers largely stood by Netanyahu, arguing that the decision on a two-state solution should be left to the Israeli government. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas stated that America should not dictate the outcome, emphasizing that no one cares for the safety and security of Israel more than the Israeli people.

Senator Marco Rubio of Florida echoed Cruz's sentiments and expressed his skepticism about the possibility of a Palestinian state at present. Rubio highlighted the complexities surrounding governance and the destructive beliefs held by the groups claiming leadership over the Palestinian people.

On Thursday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived on Capitol Hill to brief members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee about his recent trip to the Middle East. Blinken had urged Israel and Arab leaders to find a way forward for Gaza after the conflict with Hamas ends, but Netanyahu rejected the U.S. proposal, further intensifying the debate.