Israeli politician Smotrich is drafting maps for West Bank annexation plans
In a move that could significantly alter the political landscape of the Middle East, the current Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is pushing forward with a concrete annexation plan for the West Bank. This plan, which includes the approval of the E1 settlement project near Jerusalem, explicitly rejects the establishment of a Palestinian state and aims to expand settlements to solidify control over the area.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a key proponent of this plan, has long called for the annexation of the West Bank, captured by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war. Smotrich, who has been urging Netanyahu to accept his plan being drawn up by a department under his supervision in the defense ministry, wants "maximum territory and minimum (Palestinian) population" under Israeli sovereignty.
Smotrich presented a map suggesting the possible annexation of most of the West Bank during a press conference in Jerusalem. However, the exception to the proposed annexation includes six large Palestinian cities, including Ramallah and Nablus.
The UN's highest court ruled in 2024 that Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories, including the West Bank, and its settlements there were illegal and should end as soon as possible. Widespread condemnation is expected if any annexation of the West Bank occurs, with France, Britain, Australia, and Canada pledging to formally recognize a Palestinian state during the UN General Assembly in September. The UAE considers Israeli annexation of the West Bank a "red line."
Abdel Hakim Hanini, an official of the Palestinian rebel group Hamas, believes annexing the West Bank would lead to further resistance and confrontation. Israel is facing mounting international criticism over the war in Gaza, and the prospect of concrete steps by the Netanyahu government regarding this matter is unclear.
US President Donald Trump's stance on the matter is unclear, and Netanyahu's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the matter. A spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemns any annexation or settlement activity by Israel.
Smotrich advocates for the removal of the idea of dividing Israel and establishing a Palestinian state. Israel argues that the territories are not occupied in legal terms because they are disputed.
As the world watches, the future of the West Bank hangs in the balance, with potential repercussions for peace and stability in the Middle East.
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