Tel Aviv (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar dismissed on Tuesday what he described as a “distorted campaign” of international pressure calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict and the recognition of a Palestinian state.
In the last few days, Israel has been facing mounting international pressure, largely as a result of the humanitarian disaster taking place in Gaza. The pressure has come from governments, international and regional organizations, and from the international public, responding to the widespread starvation and suffering taking place in Gaza due to the blockade and conflict.
Saar told reporters that stopping the conflict while Hamas remains in control of Gaza and continues to hold hostages would be a
“tragedy for both Israelis and Palestinians.”
“It ain’t gonna happen, no matter how much pressure is put on Israel,”
He stated.
Why is Israel rejecting international ceasefire demands?
Saar, during a press briefing in Jerusalem, emphasized that Hamas alone bears responsibility for the conflict. He emphasized applying pressure on Israel might only push the group to adopt a more hardline approach.
“When they demand end this war, what does it really mean? Ending the war while Hamas remains in power in Gaza?”
He expressed
Saar also addressed actions by some foreign capitals, such as Paris, aiming to renew efforts for a two-state resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“The French foreign minister said in New York yesterday that Europe must pressure Israel to accept a two-state solution,”
He said.
“Establishing a Palestinian state today is establishing a Hamas state, a jihadist state. It ain’t gonna happen.”
How are European nations responding to the Gaza conflict?
Many European nations denounced Israel for its actions in Gaza in the conflict unfolding in the region. On July 21, 2025, foreign ministers from 25 involved countries (including European countries France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, etc.) issued a statement requiring an end to the war in Gaza, Euronews reported.
They condemned Israel’s “aid delivery model” as dangerous, accusing Israel of “drip feeding” humanitarian aid while engaging in the “inhumane killing of civilians, including children,” who are relying on viands and food.
Is France’s recognition of Palestine influencing others?
Several European countries are extremely close to officially recognizing Palestine within days. France, in particular, stated on 24 July 2025 that it would recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025, officially becoming the first G7 nation and a permanent member of the UN Security Council to do so.
