US says it is committed to two-state solution after Knesset votes overwhelmingly against Palestinian statehood

By Rabia Iclal Turan

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US said Thursday it is committed to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict after the passing of a resolution in the Israeli parliament that rejects the establishment of a Palestinian state.

"I will let Israeli officials speak to their legislative chamber and actions that that chamber takes but the United States is committed to advancing enduring peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike. And we believe that the practical way for that is a two-state solution, a Palestinian state that is standing side by side with Israel," State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters.

"We believe that is the only way to advance an enduring peace. And it is also something that we believe is in Israel's security," he said.

Patel said the US will continue to engage Israeli leadership at the highest levels to make clear its position regarding a two-state solution.

When pressed to comment on the recent move by the Knesset, Patel said: "I think it can be safely implied that piece of legislation that is in opposition to the two-state solution is not something that we would be thrilled about. But again, I don't have the expertise or the analysis of this legislation."

The resolution in the Knesset, passed by a vote of 68 - 9, said the establishment of a Palestinian state “in the heart of the Land of Israel would pose an existential danger to the State of Israel and its citizens, perpetuate the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and destabilize the region.”

The vote came as Prime Minister Netanyahu is scheduled to go to Washington on Sunday to meet US President Joe Biden and address Congress.

The Knesset voted in February to unilaterally reject the recognition of a Palestinian state.