Tensions are escalating in the Middle East as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issues stern warnings to countries recognizing Palestinian statehood.
With international support for Palestine growing, Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel will respond forcefully, while also seeking the backing of the United States before taking major steps toward annexation.
Netanyahu Warns Global Leaders
Netanyahu directly addressed governments including the United Kingdom, Portugal, Canada, and Australia, which recently moved to recognize Palestine. In a sharp statement, he declared:
“I have a clear message to those leaders who recognized a Palestinian state after the horrific massacre of October 7: you are giving terrorism a huge reward.
There will be no Palestinian state west of the Jordan River. For years, I resisted enormous internal and external pressure to prevent the creation of this terrorist entity.
We acted firmly and wisely. Moreover, we doubled Jewish construction in Judea and Samaria — and we will continue this path. The response to the latest attempt to impose a state of terror in the heart of our land will be given after my return from the United States. Wait for it.”
His remarks underline Israel’s firm opposition to Palestinian sovereignty and signal potential future moves in the region.
Seeking the Green Light from Washington
Axios reports that Netanyahu is intent on obtaining approval from US President Donald Trump before any annexation occurs.
Israeli officials told the outlet that the prime minister wants a “green light” from Trump to ensure alignment with American policy before advancing territorial plans.
Trump’s Silence and Diplomatic Maneuvers
While Trump has refrained from publicly criticizing nations recognizing Palestine, he has delegated the diplomatic effort to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Rubio has instructed American diplomats around the world to lobby against such recognition, though US officials and European diplomats report these efforts have had limited impact.
The international momentum in favor of Palestine continues largely unabated.
Expanding International Support for Palestine
Recognition of Palestine is spreading beyond the initial countries of the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal.
Several additional governments have announced plans to follow suit, signaling a weakening of Washington’s influence in this arena.
This growing support presents a diplomatic challenge for Netanyahu’s government and heightens tensions between Israel and much of the Western world.