Knesset votes overwhelmingly against Palestinian statehood

YEREVAN, JULY 18, ARMENPRESS. The Knesset early Thursday voted overwhelmingly to pass a resolution rejecting the establishment of a Palestinian state, the Times of Israel reports.

This resolution — passed 68-9 — altogether rejects the establishment of a Palestinian state, even as part of a negotiated settlement with Israel.

“The Knesset of Israel firmly opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state west of Jordan. The establishment of a Palestinian state in the heart of the Land of Israel will pose an existential danger to the State of Israel and its citizens, perpetuate the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and destabilize the region,” the resolution stated.

The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza to destroy the Hamas group in response to an unprecedented attack on southern Israel on 7 October, during which about 1,200 people were killed and around 250 others were taken hostage.

Around 38,800 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.