JERUSALEM\/ISTANBUL<\/p>\n
Divisions have grown inside Israel\u2019s governing coalition over how to respond to a wave of international recognition of a Palestinian state, according to Israeli media.<\/p>\n
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an urgent meeting earlier in the day, without including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir or Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, to discuss Israel\u2019s reaction to the decisions by Western countries, Channel 12 reported Sunday.<\/p>\n
According to unnamed political sources cited by the outlet, allies of Ben-Gvir viewed the move as an effort to soften demands for extending Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank. They and other far-right figures are pressing for tougher measures, including accelerating annexation plans and dismantling the Palestinian Authority.<\/p>\n
Netanyahu, however, is said to favor a more cautious approach, aiming to preserve coalition stability and avoid further diplomatic fallout.<\/p>\n
During the meeting, he reportedly stressed the importance of coordinating closely with US President Donald Trump\u2019s administration in shaping Israel\u2019s response.<\/p>\n
On Sunday, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal announced the recognition of Palestine, bringing the total number of UN member states that have taken this step to 153 out of 193.<\/p>\n
Eleven other countries — including Malta, Luxembourg, France, Belgium, and Armenia — declared plans to extend the recognition during the UN General Assembly\u2019s 80th session this month in New York, where world leaders will convene Monday for the high-level debate. <\/p>\n