Israeli Defense Minister Asserts No Palestinian State Will Be Established
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has made controversial remarks, declaring that Israeli policy is "clear and explicit: there will be no Palestinian state."
In comments made on Sunday, November 16, 2025, Katz stated that Israeli forces "will remain at the top of Mount Sheikh," which overlooks Damascus, the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon, and the occupied Golan Heights, according to local media.
* Military Presence on Mount Sheikh
Katz noted that Israeli forces have been operating in the buffer zone and on Mount Sheikh along the Syrian border since December 2024, where they have established military installations and observation posts.
* Operations Against Hamas
Concerning the Gaza Strip, the Defense Minister affirmed that the Israeli military will continue its efforts to dismantle tunnels until the last one is destroyed. He added that disarming Hamas will take place within the "yellow line," while operations in "Old Gaza" will involve either an international force or the Israeli army.
* Criticism of Netanyahu's Leadership
In a related development, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir have increased their criticism of any international recognition of a Palestinian state, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being politically ineffective.
* Situation in the Rafah Tunnels
On the international stage, the U.S. administration is working to resolve the situation of Hamas fighters trapped in the Rafah tunnels in southern Gaza, as preparations are made for the next phase of the Gaza agreement. However, Israel has stated it will not allow their exit unless they agree to surrender and disarm.
* Ongoing Military Intentions
Katz’s recent statements are consistent with his past assertions regarding Israel's commitment to maintaining its presence on Mount Sheikh and in areas it controls in southern Lebanon.
