Netanyahu’s real purpose seems to be procrastination and shifting the onus of progress onto the Palestinians. This strategy could backfire, as other parties fill the diplomatic vacuum with proposals of their own. Netanyahu’s insistence on demilitarization opens the door to demands for mutual demilitarization.

The speech represents a political success for Netanyahu, as he managed to improve relations with the US while simultaneously keeping his governing coalition intact. But down the line he will need a national unity government to make difficult decisions on settlements and more.

The Israeli election result this week confirms the emergence of a one-block, right-of-center dominant political reality in Israel; a fact that is likely to dominate for many years to come. Kadima’s electoral achievement is ephemeral.