Abu Mazen’s Opposition to Recognition of Israel as a Jewish State: Strategic Implications | iNSS

In 1993 Israel recognized the PLO as the representative of the Palestinian people; in 2015 Palestinian leader Abu Mazen does not recognize Israel as a Jewish state. This longstanding Palestinian position has profound significance for the negotiations on a permanent settlement, because in effect it means advocacy of a particular two-state solution: an independent Palestinian state next to Israel as a bi-national (Jewish-Palestinian) state within the Green Line, in contrast to a solution of two states for two peoples, as advocated by Israel. Abu Mazen’s position reflects the fundamental Palestinian principle, evident since 1947 and even before, that opposes a Jewish state in the Land of Israel with adjustments based on the current situation. The aim is to establish an independent Palestinian state on the basis of the 1967 borders, in which Jews will not reside, next to Israel as a Jewish-Palestinian bi-national state where the Palestinian minority will increase and grow stronger. In other words, there is de facto acceptance of Israel as a country with a Jewish majority for a limited time only.