“Nobody in his right mind” in Israel is thinking about post-war deals, Herzog tells Davos

In a compelling address at the World Economic Forum in Davos Switzerland, Israeli President Isaac Herzog pushed back against US and European pressure to agree in advance to a “pathway to a Palestinian state.” He emphasized the current Israeli mindset towards peace talks with Palestinians, dramatically impacted by what has happened since October 7. Positioned next to a photograph of hopefully-just-turned-one-year-old Israeli hostage Kfir Bibas, Herzog’s words squeaked forth on Thursday, reflecting a nation’s apprehension in the wake of violence.

Herzog candidly expressed the prevailing sentiment in Israel, stating, “If you ask an average Israeli now about his or her mental state, nobody in his right mind is willing now to think about what will be the solution of the peace agreements.” The devastating attack orchestrated by Hamas terrorists, has erased that issue from public support. “Every Israeli wants to know that he will not be attacked in the same way from north or south or east,” he added, highlighting the pervasive demand for assured safety.

Recently, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly rejected a proposal from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken which suggested Saudi Arabia would normalize relations with Israel only if Jerusalem’s commitment to a pathway towards Palestinian statehood. Herzog remarked, “Israel lost trust in the peace processes because they see that terror is glorified by our neighbors.”

Blinken, speaking at Davos, countered by asserting that Israel could not attain “genuine security” without a Palestinian state. He argued that such a step is crucial for Middle Eastern unity and would help isolate Iran, a major adversary of Israel.

On the other hand, Biden and Blinken may soon no longer be on the pathway at all.