Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has issued a provocative declaration that the Palestinian people do not exist, referring to the concept as an artificial invention without historical, archaeological, or factual basis. This assertion, made in a lengthy X post, was delivered in the lead-up to a pivotal UN Security Council vote on a US-backed resolution that aims to establish a path for Palestinian self-determination and statehood. The claim has drawn significant attention due to its implications on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its potential impact on international diplomatic efforts.
Apart from Ben-Gvir, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has also expressed a similar stance, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to make it clear to the world that a Palestinian state will never be established. This position aligns with the hardline sentiments within Netanyahu’s coalition, reflecting the broader ideological stance of the government. However, Netanyahu has remained somewhat ambiguous on the issue, having previously stated that there will be no Palestinian state to the west of the Jordan River. This has created a complex dynamic within the government, with Netanyahu appearing to distance himself from the more extreme rhetoric of his coalition partners.
The resolution under consideration by the UN Security Council is supported by several Arab and Muslim countries, indicating a level of international consensus on the need for a viable Palestinian statehood. Russia has also emphasized the importance of reaffirming the two-state solution in the upcoming resolutions, underscoring the significance of this diplomatic effort. The implications of these statements could have a lasting impact on the international diplomatic landscape, potentially influencing the direction of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The claims by Ben-Gvir and Smotrich have sparked considerable controversy, with critics arguing that they challenge the very foundation of the Palestinian identity and rights. The statement’s timing, just before a crucial vote on the resolution, adds to the tension, as it may affect the outcome of the UN Security Council vote. The international community remains watchful, as these developments could have far-reaching consequences for the conflict and the prospects for peace.
As the debate over the existence of the Palestinian people continues, it is clear that the issue is highly politicized and deeply rooted in the historical and cultural context of the region. The claims by Israeli government officials reflect a broader ideological struggle, with implications that extend beyond the immediate political landscape. The international community will likely continue to monitor the situation closely, as the resolution’s outcome may significantly influence the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the prospects for a two-state solution.