Mon Nov 11 18:14:37 UTC 2024: ## Israeli Finance Minister Aims for West Bank Annexation in 2025, Seeking Trump’s Support
**Jerusalem, October 26, 2023** – Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has announced plans to annex the occupied West Bank by 2025, banking on the support of US President-elect Donald Trump. Smotrich, who oversees the administration of the West Bank through his position in the Defence Ministry, has ordered preparations for the move, stating that he believes the new US administration will recognize Israel’s claim to “sovereignty” over the territory.
Smotrich, a resident of an illegal Israeli settlement, expressed his confidence in Trump’s support, citing the former president’s pro-Israel policies during his first term. He has also received backing from Israel’s ruling coalition for the annexation, which would effectively eliminate the possibility of a Palestinian state.
Palestinian officials have condemned the announcement, with President Mahmoud Abbas’ spokesperson, Nabil Abu Rudeineh, calling it a “dangerous policy” that violates international law. He also criticized the US for its continued support of Israel’s actions.
While Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed that the government has not yet made a formal decision on annexation, he acknowledged that the possibility is on the table and would be discussed with the US administration.
The proposed annexation has raised alarm bells within the international community, as it would constitute a major escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Critics warn that it could trigger further violence and undermine any prospect of a peaceful resolution.
The West Bank has been under Israeli occupation since 1967, and the expansion of Israeli settlements has been widely condemned as illegal under both international and Israeli law. Smotrich’s latest statement underscores the growing influence of the far-right within the Israeli government and the potential for further tensions in the region.
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