Israeli Officials Push for West Bank Annexation Amid International Condemnation
Israeli Settlement Minister Orit Struck has publicly supported the annexation of the West Bank, aligning with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's controversial statements. Struck, a member of the far-right Jewish Power party, emphasized the need for continued occupation of the Gaza Strip and declared that her office is actively working towards declaring Israeli sovereignty over as much of the West Bank as possible. She expressed optimism about the incoming U.S. administration under President-elect Donald Trump, citing the pro-Israel stance of key officials such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee.
Struck stated, "We see these people and we hear their (pro-Israel) positions, so it is clear that these are positions that are more in line not only with the Israeli government, but with the majority of Israelis." She further articulated her vision for the future of Palestinians in the West Bank, suggesting that while they may enjoy individual human rights, national rights to the land would solely belong to the Jewish people.
British Government Condemns Israeli Annexation Plans
In response to the Israeli ministers' remarks, British Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer condemned the calls for annexation, asserting that such actions would jeopardize peace efforts and lead to increased instability in the region. Falconer emphasized that annexation is illegal under international law and urged the Israeli government to distance itself from these declarations.
On November 11, Smotrich had instructed the Settlement Administration to prepare for the infrastructure needed to implement sovereignty over the West Bank, declaring 2025 as the target year for this initiative. The situation continues to escalate as international observers watch closely, concerned about the implications for peace in the region.
