Sunak differs from Israeli Ambassador’s ‘no Two-state' stance; Hamas hints at Israel recognition
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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reaffirmed his commitment to the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, despite Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely's explicit rejection of the long-standing plan.
Sunak, addressing the media on Thursday, expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the loss of innocent lives and urging for a resolution without further delay.
Sunak defended Israel's right to self-defence but conveyed a message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, insisting on the protection of civilians.
This stance follows Hotovely's interview with Sky News where she emphatically dismissed the possibility of a two-state solution. Hotovely asserted that Palestinians had never sought a state alongside Israel but instead desired a state "from the river to the sea."
The Israeli ambassador criticized the Palestinian Authority for not condemning the recent attack by Hamas and rejected calls for a humanitarian ceasefire. Hotovely questioned the practicality of creating a humanitarian corridor to the enemy, drawing historical parallels but faced pushback on comparisons to Nazi Germany and World War II.
Meanwhile, a senior leader of the militant group Hamas, Mousa Abu Marzouk, hinted at the possibility of recognizing Israel as part of Palestinian unity talks. This significant development could be interpreted as a move for peace.
Hamas, traditionally advocating for Israel's destruction, seems to be contemplating a shift in stance amid the current circumstances. Marzouk referred to the Palestine Liberation Organization's recognition of Israel in the Oslo Accords of 1993 and suggested that Hamas might follow suit.
The situation remains complex as the conflict has claimed over 18,500 Palestinian lives, with widespread criticism of Israel's military campaign, particularly for its impact on women and children.