Israel's political landscape is increasingly dominated by far-right figures, particularly Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. His recent declarations regarding the annexation of the occupied West Bank signal a bold and potentially destabilizing move for the region. This article examines the implications of Smotrich's plans, the historical context of the West Bank occupation, and the international response to these developments.
Bezalel Smotrich has announced preparations for the annexation of the West Bank, coinciding with the anticipated inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in January 2025. Smotrich hopes that the new administration will recognize Israel's claims to "sovereignty" over the territory, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967.
Living in an illegal Israeli settlement, Smotrich holds dual roles as Finance Minister and a key figure within Israel's Defense Ministry, overseeing the administration of the West Bank and its settlements. At a recent meeting of his far-right faction in the Knesset, he proclaimed, “2025: the year of sovereignty in Judea and Samaria,” using the biblical name for the occupied territory.
Following Trump's victory over Kamala Harris, Smotrich directed the Defense Ministry’s Settlement Directorate and Civil Administration to initiate groundwork for annexation. He stated, “I have directed the start of professional work to prepare the necessary infrastructure to apply Israeli sovereignty over Judea and Samaria.” Smotrich expressed confidence that Trump would support Israel in this endeavor, citing the president's previous actions during his first term.
The ruling coalition in Israel appears unified against the formation of a Palestinian state. Smotrich emphasized that applying Israeli sovereignty over the settlements is essential to mitigate what he perceives as a threat from Palestinian aspirations. His comments have raised alarms among Palestinian leaders and international observers, who view this as a blatant disregard for international law.
Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, condemned Smotrich's remarks, labeling them as confirmation of Israel's intent to annex the West Bank. He stated, “We hold the Israeli occupation authorities fully responsible for the repercussions of these dangerous policies.” Abu Rudeineh also criticized the U.S. for its unwavering support of Israel, which he argues enables such aggressive actions.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar acknowledged the settler movement's optimism regarding U.S. support but clarified that no formal decision on annexation had been made. “A decision has not yet been made on the issue,” he stated, indicating that discussions would occur if the situation warranted it.
The West Bank has been a focal point of Israeli-Palestinian tensions since the Six-Day War in 1967, when Israel captured the territory. Since then, Israeli settlements have proliferated, despite being deemed illegal under international law. Smotrich's advocacy for extending Israeli sovereignty over these territories is not new; he has consistently opposed the creation of a Palestinian state and has threatened to destabilize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition if peace negotiations are pursued.
During Trump's first term, he made significant policy shifts regarding Israel and Palestine. In 2017, he recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital, overturning decades of U.S. policy and international consensus. His administration supported continued settlement expansion and proposed a plan for a "Palestinian entity" that lacked full sovereignty, further complicating the peace process.
The Israeli military's Civil Administration has recently transferred more control over the West Bank to the Settlements Administration, which Smotrich leads. This transfer includes authority over building regulations and the management of land, parks, and forests, effectively consolidating power in the hands of those advocating for annexation.
We strongly condemn Israel's settlement expansion and the potential for annexation. Various countries and organizations have reiterated their commitment to a two-state solution, emphasizing the need for negotiations based on international law. However, the U.S. has historically provided unwavering support for Israel, complicating efforts to hold the state accountable for its actions.
As Smotrich and other far-right leaders push for annexation, the prospect of a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict appears increasingly bleak. The ongoing occupation and settlement expansion threaten to undermine any semblance of a viable Palestinian state, leading to further tensions and violence in the region.
The actions and intentions of Bezalel Smotrich and the far-right factions within the Israeli government represent a dangerous escalation in the ongoing conflict over the West Bank. As preparations for annexation move forward, the implications for Palestinian sovereignty and international stability are profound. The international community must condemn these actions and advocate for a just resolution to the conflict, ensuring that the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people are respected. The annexation of the West Bank is not merely a political maneuver; it is a violation of international law and an affront to the principles of justice and peace.