Arab Nations Condemn Israeli Minister's Annexation Remarks
In a unified response, several Arab countries have condemned the recent statements made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich regarding the annexation of the West Bank. Smotrich's remarks, which included plans to impose Israeli sovereignty over the occupied territory and expand settlements, have drawn sharp criticism from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE. Each nation emphasized that such statements represent a blatant violation of international law and threaten the peace process in the region.
Qatar's Foreign Ministry described Smotrich's comments as a dangerous escalation, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The ministry called for the international community to oppose Israel's colonial policies and support the rights of the Palestinian people. Similarly, Saudi Arabia warned that these extremist statements undermine peace efforts and exacerbate regional tensions, while Egypt labeled them a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.
Jordan echoed these sentiments, urging the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions and to protect Palestinian rights. The UAE also expressed its categorical rejection of any measures aimed at altering the legal status of the occupied territories, calling for renewed efforts to revive the peace process.
Repeated Calls for Annexation
This is not the first instance of Smotrich advocating for the annexation of the West Bank. His previous remarks, including a call for sovereignty over both the West Bank and Gaza Strip, have raised alarms among international observers. The International Court of Justice has previously affirmed the Palestinians' right to self-determination and the need for Israeli settlements in occupied territories to be evacuated.
As tensions escalate, the Israeli military has intensified operations in the West Bank, leading to significant casualties among Palestinians. Official Palestinian data reports that since October 7, 2023, around 780 Palestinians have been killed and approximately 6,300 injured due to ongoing violence, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict.
