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Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich Prepares for West Bank Annexation Amid US Presidential Transition

Published November 12, 2024
3 months ago

In a striking political maneuver, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has initiated preparations for the annexation of the occupied West Bank, anticipating support from the incoming administration of US President-elect Donald Trump in January 2025. Smotrich's directive reflects a significant pivot in the Middle East political landscape and underscores potential shifts in Israeli-Palestinian relations.





The Finance Minister, known for his assertive far-right views, specifically instructed the Defence Ministry’s Settlement Directorate and Civil Administration to lay the foundations for applying Israeli sovereignty over the region — territories internationally recognized as occupied since 1967. This aligns with Smotrich's dual role, as he also supervises West Bank affairs within the Defence Ministry.


Smotrich's statement aligns with the consolidation of his position and influence within the ruling coalition, which largely supports annexation and dismisses the formation of a Palestinian state. Conversely, Nabil Abu Rudeineh, a spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, rebuked the move as an outright violation of international law, holding Israel and its American allies accountable for the potential consequences.


While the sentiment in Smotrich's party favors US backing, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has indicated that the government has not yet formalized a decision. The international community regards the Israeli settlements in the West Bank as illegal. These have seen continuous growth over the past decades, compounding the political and humanitarian complexities in the region.


Smotrich's prior statements and actions, including threats to disrupt Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition over discord with Hezbollah, have been indicative of his aggressive strategy towards extending Israeli control over the West Bank. Netanyahu’s administration has already witnessed an increase in Smotrich's influence, with his party earning a cabinet observer role.


Trump's presidency set historical precedents by embracing shifts in longstanding US policy in the region, including the recognition of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital and acquiescing to settlement expansions. Previous to this development, the Israeli military’s Civil Administration had already granted more authority over West Bank activities to the Settlements Administration, precipitating a more assertive Israeli presence.


These announcements are emblematic of the delicate and volatile nature of Middle Eastern geopolitics, capturing the intersection of domestic Israeli politics with broader international diplomatic intrigue.


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