Netanyahu Vows Response to International Recognition of Palestinian State

JERUSALEM, Israel — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged a strong response to several countries recognizing a Palestinian state. At a government meeting on September 21, Netanyahu declared that Israel would fight against what he described as “slanderous propaganda aimed at us” and the notion of a Palestinian state, which he believes threatens Israel’s existence.

Netanyahu stated that the international community would soon hear from Israel regarding this issue, hinting at possible discussions about annexing parts of the occupied West Bank. Although he has not outlined his exact plans publicly, he reaffirmed that Israel’s response would follow his upcoming meetings next week.

Lacking the prior support of the Trump administration, Netanyahu’s options appear limited. However, he has indicated that he feels empowered by the backing of the U.S., allowing him to maneuver aggressively without significant diplomatic repercussions. He noted that Israel has already expanded Jewish settlements, deemed illegal under international law, and plans to continue on this path.

For weeks, Israeli officials have accused Western nations of recognizing Palestinian statehood for domestic political gain, asserting this would not alter the situation on the ground. As a result, Israel is retaliating amid increasing hostility from the international community.

Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners are advocating for extensive annexation of the West Bank. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that the “only response” to the recognition should be full annexation, aiming to eliminate the Palestinian state agenda entirely. Meanwhile, Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir proposed granting sovereignty to Israeli settlements in the next government meeting.

Despite the strong reactions from Israel’s closest allies, including the UK, Canada, and Australia, the government remains determined in its approach. On a recent visit to Israel, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the government’s position while attempting to dissuade nations from recognizing Palestine, to no avail.

The current geopolitical situation raises concerns not only about the prospects for a peaceful resolution but also about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, exacerbated by Israel’s continuing military operations and settlement expansion. Former consul general Alon Pinkas commented that even if annexation occurs, it might only include stretches of land that hold little significance.

As tensions rise, opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned Netanyahu’s handling of the situation, emphasizing that the government’s failures have led to a severe diplomatic crisis for Israel.