Israeli lawmaker Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound to pray for the return of hostages, without surrendering. A resolution against Palestinian statehood was passed in the Knesset, with members from opposition parties abstaining from voting. The resolution states that a Palestinian state poses an existential danger to Israel and will only encourage terrorism. The vote comes as a growing number of countries show support for a Palestinian state. A Pew Research Center poll found that the belief in peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine has declined among Israelis. Netanyahu’s government has faced criticism and isolation over the offensive in Gaza, with pressure to present a clear plan for ending the conflict. Netanyahu defended his actions in the war, saying Israeli forces have pressured Hamas in negotiations for a cease-fire. The resolution and Israeli opposition to a two-state solution complicate diplomatic efforts for a resolution.
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Israel’s Knesset decisively rejects Palestinian statehood as Netanyahu readies for U.S. trip
