Netanyahu Opposes Western Recognition of Palestine, Says Israel “Won’t Commit Suicide”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly opposed recent Western moves to recognise a Palestinian state, stating Israel “won’t commit suicide” to satisfy Europe’s political needs, according to Sky News.

Netanyahu’s spokeswoman Shosh Badrosian relayed the Prime Minister’s remarks during a short news conference, emphasising that Israel views the recognition as a reward for terrorism.

“There have been media reports suggesting the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is planning on announcing the UK’s recognition of a Palestinian state today, a manoeuvre that Prime Minister Netanyahu has called absurd and simply a reward for terrorism,” Badrosian said.

She further explained, “The Prime Minister has made it very clear to me that his message to nations taking the avenue to disregard the sheer, utter chaos Hamas has thrusted Gaza into, and Israel, including our soldiers, families and hostages still held in Hamas captivity, is that the people of Israel aren’t going to commit suicide because of the political needs of European politics.”

Israel has been vocal in opposing not just the UK’s recognition, but also similar moves by Australia and Canada, who in a coordinated effort formally recognised the Palestinian state on Sunday. The trio emphasised that a two-state solution remains the goal and that Hamas must immediately cease its activities.

Badrosian confirmed that Netanyahu will be travelling to New York for the UN General Assembly later this week, where several nations are expected to announce recognition of Palestine. He aims to present Israel’s case and caution countries about the implications of their actions.

The developments come amid a backdrop of ongoing conflict in Gaza, where violence and humanitarian crises continue. Israel’s strong opposition reflects its concerns over security, hostages, and the broader implications of Western recognition for the region.