Israeli President Isaac Herzog has criticized the decision by the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada to formally recognize a Palestinian state, warning that the move will only empower extremists in the region.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Herzog said the recognition comes at a dangerous time, with Hamas still holding 48 Israeli hostages and continuing attacks nearly a year after the October 7 massacre.
“After the atrocities of October 7, while Hamas continues its campaign of terror, and while it cruelly holds 48 hostages in the tunnels and dungeons of Gaza, the recognition of a Palestinian state by some nations today is, not surprisingly, cheered by Hamas,” Herzog wrote.
He argued that the move would neither advance Palestinian welfare nor bring peace.
“It will not help one Palestinian, it won’t help free one hostage, and it will not help us reach any settlement between Israelis and Palestinians,” Herzog continued.
“It will only embolden the forces of darkness.”
Calling it “a sad day for those who seek true peace,” Herzog joined a growing list of Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who have condemned the Western nations’ decision as a dangerous misstep that undermines efforts to contain terrorism.
Herzog slams western recognition of Palestinian state, says move strengthens “forces of darkness”