Israel Considers West Bank Annexation Amidst Diplomatic Shifts
According to three Israeli officials, Israel is considering annexing the occupied West Bank as a potential response to countries like France and others pledging to formally recognize a Palestinian state. This move is expected to be discussed in a security cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The article notes that any such action would likely face widespread international condemnation.
International Reactions and Legal Context
Israel’s consideration of annexation comes as it faces growing international criticism over the war in Gaza. Several countries, including France, Britain, Australia, and Canada, have pledged to recognize a Palestinian state at an upcoming United Nations summit. This action would contradict the long-standing international consensus, as the UN’s highest court has declared Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and its settlements to be illegal. However, Israel maintains that these are “disputed lands” and not occupied territories.
Unanswered Questions and Political Motivations
The article points out that it is unclear where or when any annexation would take place, or if any concrete steps would follow the discussions. It also mentions that members of Netanyahu’s ruling coalition have been advocating for the formal annexation of parts of the West Bank for years, citing biblical and historical ties to the territory.
