Trump says he will block Israeli annexation of West Bank
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Washington: US President Donald Trump has said he will not permit Israel to annex the occupied West Bank, pledging to stop any such move despite pressure from Israeli officials and growing international tensions.
Asked about reports that Israel might seek to assert control over parts of the West Bank, Trump told reporters at the White House, “I will not allow Israel to annex the West Bank I will not allow it. It’s not going to happen.” He said he had spoken to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and made clear that the US would oppose annexation, adding, “It’s been enough. It’s time to stop now.”
The remarks come as a rare sign of pushback from Trump, who has prided himself on his close ties with Netanyahu and unwavering support for Israel. His comments coincide with Israel’s major offensive in Gaza, a humanitarian crisis in Gaza City, and Netanyahu’s scheduled visit to Washington on Monday.
Israel seized the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza during the 1967 Mideast war. The West Bank is currently under the Palestinian Authority, while Gaza is controlled by Hamas. Palestinians seek both territories, along with East Jerusalem, for a future state. Much of the international community argues that annexation would eliminate any realistic chance of a two-state solution.
Arab leaders, including those in the United Arab Emirates, have warned that annexation would cross a “red line”. Meanwhile, several Western nations have recognized Palestinian statehood in recent days. Britain, France, and Australia are among about 10 countries to do so this week, saying the move is aimed at reviving efforts toward a two-state solution. The US and Israel strongly oppose the recognition.
Over half a million Jewish settlers live in more than 130 settlements across the West Bank, which the international community largely considers illegal. Netanyahu’s coalition government, regarded as the most nationalist in Israel’s history, supports extending Israeli control over the territory.
Whether Trump can influence Netanyahu’s government remains uncertain. While the president has criticized some Israeli actions, such as attacks on Hamas officials in Qatar, he has not taken any steps that carry significant consequences. Analysts say Netanyahu risks alienating coalition partners if he stalls annexation plans but could potentially gain concessions from Washington by holding off.
Germany has not recognized Palestinian statehood but has halted some arms exports to Israel. Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank have welcomed the international recognition moves, though many remain doubtful that it will bring immediate relief as the conflict grinds on.