Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared there will be no Palestinian state. He made the statement during a ceremony launching a major settlement project in the occupied West Bank.
Netanyahu’s Declaration
Speaking in Maale Adumim, a settlement just east of Jerusalem, Netanyahu was firm in his message.
“We are going to fulfil our promise that there will be no Palestinian state. This place belongs to us,” he said.
He also vowed to double the settlement’s population. The event was streamed live by his office, signaling the importance of the announcement.
Building in the E1 Zone
The expansion focuses on the E1 zone. This 12-square-kilometre area lies between Jerusalem and Maale Adumim. Israel has pushed for construction there for years.
However, the plan has been blocked repeatedly due to strong international opposition. Critics warn that building in E1 would split the West Bank in two. As a result, the land for a future Palestinian state would no longer be contiguous.
Last month, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich approved the building of 3,400 homes in the area. His move reignited global criticism.
International Reaction
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the plan. He said the expansion poses an “existential threat” to the creation of a Palestinian state.
Western governments, including Britain and France, also criticized the project. They stressed that all Israeli settlements in the West Bank remain illegal under international law.
Meanwhile, several European countries announced they will recognize Palestine at the United Nations later this month. This step is seen as a direct response to Israel’s settlement drive.
Outlook
Netanyahu’s comments reflect the hardline stance of his government. His coalition is considered one of the most right-wing in Israel’s history.
The settlement expansion will likely increase regional tensions. It also deepens the already stalled peace process between Israelis and Palestinians.
