Israel may annex parts of the occupied West Bank in response to France and other nations recognizing a Palestinian state, according to three Israeli officials. Discussions on this possibility are set for Sunday, as stated by another official.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet will discuss extending Israeli sovereignty to the West Bank in a meeting on Sunday, primarily focused on the Gaza conflict, a minister said.
Details on the specific areas and timing of such measures remain unclear, as well as whether any action will follow the discussions.
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Any move towards annexation in the West Bank would likely face widespread condemnation from Palestinians, who view the area as part of a future state, as well as from Arab and Western nations.
The stance of US President Donald Trump on this issue is uncertain. The White House and State Department did not immediately provide comments.
An Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar spokesperson did not comment on whether Saar discussed the annexation with US counterpart Marco Rubio in Washington last week.
Netanyahu’s office did not respond to inquiries on his position regarding annexation.
The office of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also did not provide a comment. The US stated it would not permit Abbas to attend the UN leaders’ gathering in New York, where several allies plan to recognize Palestine.
Global Recognition of Palestine
Facing increased international criticism over its actions in Gaza, Israel is upset by France, Britain, Australia, and Canada’s pledges to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September.
The UN’s highest court in 2024 ruled that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories, including the West Bank, is illegal and should be reversed promptly.
Israel argues these territories are disputed, not occupied, but the UN and most of the global community consider them occupied.
Israel’s previous annexations of East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights have not received international approval.
Members of Netanyahu’s coalition have long advocated for annexing parts of the West Bank, citing biblical and historical connections.
