Kariv : Israel should establish Palestinian state , PM Benjamin Netanyahu built up Hamas

What Happened

In a radio interview on 103FM on Wednesday, MK Gilad Kariv, who placed third in The Democrats Party primaries, stated that Israel should pursue a diplomatic process to divide the land and establish a demilitarized Palestinian state within a regional agreement. He accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of having 'built up' Hamas, saying 'the Israeli Right built the Hamas state, as a result of unilateral steps.' Kariv said a clear political objective must accompany military measures in the ongoing war, and that he seeks a division of the land to ensure Israel as Jewish and democratic. He also addressed party chairman Yair Golan's criticism of illegal settler outposts from which organized violence against Palestinians emerges. The interview followed primary results in which 100,000 Israelis voted digitally.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

Kariv's remarks come amid the protracted war and reflect internal Israeli political divisions over the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The accusation that Netanyahu strengthened Hamas aligns with broader critiques of his security policy. The call for a Palestinian state, even as a distant goal, contrasts with the current government's rejection of such an outcome, potentially influencing coalition dynamics and public debate over war aims and diplomatic strategy.

Watch For

Monitor responses from Prime Minister Netanyahu, coalition parties, and opposition leaders to Kariv's statements. Watch for any shift in the Israeli government's official stance on Palestinian statehood or ceasefire talks. Track polling data on Israeli public opinion regarding a demilitarized Palestinian state and support for Hamas among Palestinians. Note any Israeli security measures targeting illegal settler outposts mentioned by Golan.