Israel considers annexation of West Bank as retaliation for efforts to recognize Palestine
The upcoming security cabinet meeting in Israel, scheduled for Sunday, August 31, is expected to focus on the controversial issue of annexing parts of the West Bank. This move comes in response to several countries, including France, recognizing a Palestinian state.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has yet to comment on his support for annexation and its potential location. Similarly, the White House and State Department have not responded to requests for comment regarding the annexation. A spokesperson for Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Senator Marco Rubio, who is reportedly in discussions about the annexation, have also remained silent on the matter.
The annexation is likely to draw widespread condemnation from the Palestinians, Arab, and Western countries. The Palestinians seek the West Bank for a future state, and its annexation would significantly impact their aspirations.
The exact extent of the proposed annexation is unclear. While the Jordan Valley is one of the specific areas that could potentially be affected, it remains uncertain whether the annexation will only apply to Israeli settlements or other areas of the West Bank.
Any concrete steps towards annexation would likely entail a lengthy legislative process. The precise location and timing of any annexation steps are still unclear.
US Vice President JD Vance, speaking for the US position linked to Trump, has expressed skepticism about recognizing Palestine due to governance issues. Trump himself has not publicly supported Palestinian state recognition, and his stance on the proposed annexation remains unclear.
Besides France, approximately 147 countries worldwide have recognized Palestine as a state, mainly from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Recently, European countries such as Norway, Spain, Ireland, and potentially the UK, Canada, and Australia have moved towards recognition as well.
No comment has been made by Senator Marco Rubio regarding his discussions with Gideon Saar about the annexation. It is uncertain whether the annexation will only apply to Israeli settlements or other areas of the West Bank. The annexation of land captured in the 1967 Middle East war is on the agenda for the meeting, but the Jordan Valley is one of the specific areas of the West Bank that could potentially be affected.
The annexation of the West Bank is a contentious issue that could have significant implications for the region. As more information becomes available, it will be crucial to monitor developments closely.
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