Palestinian statehood 'destructive move' for Israel's security, says Israeli party leader

The leader of the Israeli Democratic Party, Yair Golan, said the recognition of a Palestinian state is a "severe political failure of [Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu and [National Security Minister Bezalel] Smotrich".

He described the move as "destructive" for Israel's security and said it was a direct result of the Israeli prime minister's "political abandonment".

"The State of Israel needs a strong political stance that ends the war, frees the hostages, and ensures security for generations to come," he said.

"The issue of a demilitarised Palestinian state can and should be part of a broad regional arrangement led by Israel that secures our security interests; this is what we will do when we replace this dangerous government."