MK Gilad Kariv, who secured third place in the primaries of The Democrats Party, articulated that Israel should pursue land division to create a demilitarized Palestinian state as part of a broader regional accord. In a recent interview on 103FM, he pointedly accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of inadvertently empowering Hamas through his policies.
### Critique of Government Policy
During the discussion with Ron Kofman and Prof. Aryeh Eldad on the “Five in the Evening” program, Kariv expressed strong discontent with the current government’s approach to handling Hamas. He specifically stated, “Netanyahu has done business with Hamas and has contributed to its growth.” His remarks highlighted a broader sentiment that the right-wing policies have inadvertently fostered a state of Hamas within the region, particularly through unilateral actions.
### Vision for a Two-State Solution
When exploring potential solutions to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Kariv emphasized the necessity of separation and the establishment of a demilitarized Palestinian entity. He described his party’s vision as one where, following an extended diplomatic process, the land would be equitably divided, leading to the co-existence of Israel alongside a Palestinian state, within the framework of a comprehensive regional agreement. He elaborated, “At the end of this diplomatic journey—which will take time—there will be a divided land ensuring a secure future for both peoples.”
### Discussing Diplomatic Goals Amidst Conflict
The discussion took a significant turn when Kariv was probed about the feasibility of discussing a diplomatic vision amid ongoing conflict. He stated that Israel ought to clarify its political goals even while military operations are underway. “Amidst two and a half years of conflict, it is crucial to define what our diplomatic vision entails,” he noted. His ultimate aim is to achieve a division of land that preserves Israel’s identity as a Jewish and democratic state, while also ending the governance over millions of Palestinians.
### Public Sentiment and Polls
Kariv also tackled the issue of public sentiment regarding Hamas, particularly in light of recent poll results that suggest a substantial portion of Palestinian support for the organization, raising security concerns among Israelis. He acknowledged these polls but urged the acknowledgment of contradictory surveys that indicate a willingness among segments of the Palestinian population to pursue a diplomatic agreement. “I’m not dismissing the polls, but they don’t tell the whole story,” Kariv remarked, asserting that there are Palestinians interested in peace, who are not affiliated with Hamas.
### Addressing Internal Party Dynamics
Additionally, Kariv responded to criticisms levied by Yair Golan, Chairman of The Democrats Party, concerning the settlement movement. He defended Golan’s stance, affirming that the criticism was directed specifically at illegal outposts and centers of violence, rather than at the broader Israeli settlement efforts. “Golan’s observations rightly focus on illegal outposts, especially those linked to organized violence against Palestinians,” Kariv said.
Kariv concluded his interview by reflecting on the strong turnout in the party primaries, which saw over 100,000 Israelis participating. He lauded this as a significant milestone for Democratic engagement in Israeli politics, underscoring the vitality of the democratic process within the party framework.