The Palestinian Foreign Ministry has strongly criticised Israel's recent vote to formalise its opposition to the "unilateral recognition" of Palestinian statehood.

Responding to Israel's decision, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry emphasised that "the full membership of the State of Palestine in the United Nations and its recognition by states do not need a license from [Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu."

Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, justified the move during a weekly meeting, citing concerns over international discussions attempting to impose a Palestinian state on Israel unilaterally.

Tensions persist as both sides grapple with differing perspectives on the path to achieving a resolution through direct negotiations.Russia has invited all Palestinian groups, including Hamas, for talks on February 26, according to Palestinian Prime Minister Muhammad Ishtiyyah, Arab News reported.

The Palestinian Authority expresses a desire for unity with Hamas under specific conditions, emphasising the need for a united Palestine.

The move highlights Russia's role as a mediator in the region and aims to address longstanding divisions among Palestinian factions.  As the talks approach, global attention focuses on the potential outcomes of this diplomatic initiative for fostering unity in the Middle East.

Palestinian Authority (PA) Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh has urged Israeli authorities to allow the displaced population in the southern Gaza Strip to return to their homes in the north, Al Jazeera reported.

Amid concerns of an Israeli program to push people out of Gaza, Shtayyeh, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, issued a warning to Prime Minister Netanyahu against attempting to force Palestinians across the border into Egypt.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 19 2024

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.