In Major Policy Move, Trump Nixes West Bank Annexation

In a major policy move, Donald Trump has nixed any possibility of US support for an Israeli annexation of the West Bank. His unequivocal statement, “I will not allow it,” serves as a direct rebuke to hardline members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition who have been pushing for the extension of Israeli law over the territory.
Netanyahu, who was arriving for a UN speech in New York as the news broke, now faces a complex political dilemma. He must navigate the demands of his ultra-nationalist allies while contending with the clear opposition of his most powerful international backer. His office has so far remained silent, promising a response after his return to Israel.
Trump’s decision was heavily influenced by a strategic lobbying campaign from international partners. European allies, who had recently recognized Palestine, were concerned Trump would retaliate by recognizing Israeli settlements. Concurrently, Arab and Muslim countries warned of the “grave consequences” of annexation.
The issue of annexation is inextricably linked to the 700,000 Israeli settlers living in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. These settlements, which are illegal under international law, have fragmented the land and created significant obstacles to a viable Palestinian state. The approval of the E1 settlement plan is a recent example of this trend.
This major policy statement is also part of a wider US strategy focused on the Gaza conflict. The White House has circulated a 21-point peace plan to key Middle Eastern nations in an effort to end the nearly two-year war. Trump spoke optimistically about the potential for a breakthrough, emphasizing the goals of returning hostages and achieving regional peace.