Palestinian recognition should be diplomatic, not unilateral: The US

The White House stated on Wednesday that US President Joe Biden supports the idea of achieving a Palestinian state through negotiations rather than unilateral recognition. This statement comes in response to the recent announcements from Ireland, Spain, and Norway, who have expressed their intention to recognise a Palestinian state this month.

The US reaction seemed to indicate a sense of disappointment with the three European nations' decision to unilaterally recognise a Palestinian state, even though it does not currently exist in reality.

During a routine news briefing, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan stated that each country has the freedom to decide on recognising a Palestinian state. However, President Biden believes that direct negotiations between the parties involved is the most effective approach.

In a statement, Sullivan emphasised President Biden's belief in a two-state solution that ensures both Israel's security and a future of dignity and security for the Palestinian people. According to Sullivan, this approach is seen as the most effective way to achieve long-term security and stability for all parties involved in the region.

"President Biden has consistently emphasised the importance of achieving a two-state solution through direct negotiations between the parties involved, rather than through unilateral recognition."

Sullivan was questioned about whether the United States had any concerns regarding the possibility of other nations also recognizing a Palestinian state. In a statement, he mentioned that the US would convey its unwavering stance to its partners and observe the events as they unfold.

War in Gaza

For years, the United States has been unable to successfully establish a "two-state solution" between Israel and Palestine. This solution would involve Israel coexisting with a Palestinian state that includes the West Bank, governed by the Palestinian Authority, and Gaza, which is currently under the control of the Hamas Islamist movement after taking over from the Palestinian Authority in a short civil war in 2007.

According to Israeli figures, an offensive was launched by Israel in Gaza following an attack by Hamas-led gunmen on 7 October, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives and the taking of 253 hostages.

According to health officials in the Hamas-run enclave, the number of Palestinians killed in Gaza has exceeded 35,000.

Israel has launched an offensive in Rafah, located in southern Gaza, with the stated objective of targeting Hamas militants. Since the beginning of the assault, a significant number of Palestinians have been forced to leave Rafah, while the primary pathways for aid to reach Gaza have been obstructed.

Sullivan stated that he received a briefing on Israeli efforts to minimise civilian casualties in Rafah during his recent visit to the region. He also mentioned that the United States will closely monitor the impact of the assault, assessing whether it results in significant loss of life and extensive destruction, or if it is conducted with greater precision and proportionality.

"We will now wait and observe the developments that follow," he stated.

According to his statement, aid was being received from a pier in Gaza, and he criticised Israel for withholding funds from the West Bank.

The Biden administration is aiming to facilitate an agreement that would result in the normalisation of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. In the ongoing negotiations, Saudi Arabia has made it clear that they are demanding an end to the Gaza conflict and the establishment of a Palestinian state.

This is a stance that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may find difficult to agree with.