US President Donald Trump on Thursday made it clear that he will not permit Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to annex the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The president told White House reporters ahead of Netanyahu’s UN address that the controversial move “is not going to happen.” The announcement represents a major point of friction between the two leaders, who have long maintained a close relationship. Consequently, Trump’s firm stance creates a rare instance of public pushback against Israel.
International Pressure Mounts
Israel faces increasing global pressure to end the conflict and occupation of the West Bank. A wave of Western nations is formally recognizing an independent Palestinian state. This week, France, Britain, and Australia all recognized Palestine in a move designed to galvanize a two-state solution. In addition, UN Secretary General António Guterres called such an annexation “morally, legally and politically intolerable.” Meanwhile, the European Commission is considering plans to restrict trade with Israel and impose sanctions on extremist ministers within the government.
Trump also said a ceasefire deal over the war in Gaza was “pretty close.” The conflict has now lasted nearly two years, resulting in a devastating humanitarian crisis. According to the Gaza health ministry, more than 65,000 people have been killed in the attacks. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, a UN-backed body, confirmed that over half a million people in Gaza face “catastrophic” conditions, including starvation. Furthermore, a United Nations inquiry found Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in the territory.
