Netanyahu Plans West Bank Annexation Following Trump's Election
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated a renewed focus on the annexation of the West Bank, coinciding with the upcoming inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2025. According to reports from the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation, Netanyahu has discussed the necessity of placing this contentious issue back on his government’s agenda during recent closed-door meetings.
The plans for annexation, which have reportedly been in development since 2020, include detailed maps and orders for settlement expansion. Right-wing leaders in Israel are optimistic that Trump's presidency will facilitate this process, which they believe aligns with the policies outlined in the previous administration's 'deal of the century.'
Infrastructure Preparations Underway for Sovereignty
In a related development, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich confirmed that preparations are already underway to establish the necessary infrastructure for implementing Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank. During a recent meeting of the Religious Zionism Party, Smotrich expressed confidence that 2025 would mark a significant step towards annexation, referring to the territories as 'Judea and Samaria.' He has been vocal about his intentions to extend Israeli sovereignty over these areas, reiterating calls for action in light of Trump's electoral victory.
This push for annexation comes despite international legal opinions, such as the recent statement from the International Court of Justice, which affirmed the Palestinians' right to self-determination and called for the evacuation of Israeli settlements in occupied territories.
