Israel to formalise opposition to 'unilateral imposition of Palestinian state'

Israel's government will vote on a "declaratory decision" regarding its opposition to any unilateral imposition of Palestinian statehood, the prime minister announced on Sunday.

Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday during a weekly cabinet meeting that the move came after "recent talk in the international community about an attempt to unilaterally impose on Israel a Palestinian state".

He said that the formal statement would reflect that Israel "rejects outright international dictates regarding a permanent arrangement with the Palestinians".

"Such an arrangement can only be reached in direct negotiations between the sides, without preconditions," the prime minister added.