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12/17 08:54
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Potential Annexation Discussion: Israel is contemplating the annexation of parts of the occupied West Bank in response to France and other nations recognizing a Palestinian state. This topic is set to be discussed in a security cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Scope and Timing Uncertainty: The specifics regarding where and when annexation might occur remain unclear. Possible areas include Israeli settlements or regions like the Jordan Valley, but any concrete actions would likely require a lengthy legislative process.
Palestinian and Global Response: Any move towards annexation is expected to provoke significant backlash from Palestinians, who view the West Bank as essential for their future state, as well as from various Arab and Western nations. The stance of U.S. President Donald Trump on this issue is currently unknown.
Historical Context: Netanyahu previously pledged to annex Jewish settlements and the Jordan Valley in 2020, but this was abandoned in favor of normalizing relations with the UAE and Bahrain through the Abraham Accords.
U.S. Travel Restrictions: The U.S. has barred Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas from attending the upcoming U.N. General Assembly, where several allies plan to recognize Palestine as a state.
International Legal Standing: The United Nations' highest court has declared Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories, including the West Bank, illegal, urging for withdrawal. However, Israel disputes this characterization, claiming the lands are disputed rather than occupied.
Historical Claims: Members of Netanyahu's coalition have long advocated for the formal annexation of parts of the West Bank, citing historical and biblical connections to the territory.
