Netanyahu rejects Palestinian state: "Preparing for our own destruction."

• Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the idea of a separate Palestinian state during a press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
• Netanyahu stated that a Palestinian state would be "preparing for our own destruction," citing Gaza as an example of a state used to destroy Israel.
• He affirmed Israel's intent to maintain security between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River, rejecting the two-state solution.
• Netanyahu hinted at the imminent launch of the second phase of the Gaza Peace Plan and plans to discuss ending Hamas rule with US President Trump.
• German Chancellor Merz's visit focused on improving bilateral relations and supporting Washington's Gaza peace plan.

Why It Matters: Netanyahu's rejection of a Palestinian state challenges global peace efforts.