U.S. President Donald Trump has firmly dismissed a preliminary move by Israeli lawmakers to annex the West Bank, calling it a “non-starter.” The proposed bill applying Israeli law to the territory drew sharp criticism from Washington, which warned it could derail peace efforts and strain U.S.-Israel relations amid the Gaza ceasefire.
In a clear rebuke to Israeli lawmakers, President Donald Trump has rejected a controversial bill that seeks to apply Israeli law to the occupied West Bank—a move tantamount to annexation. The bill, which won preliminary approval in Israel’s Knesset, has sparked diplomatic concern, particularly as the U.S. attempts to stabilize the region post-Gaza conflict.
Key Highlights:
Trump’s Response:
“Don’t worry about the West Bank,” Trump told reporters, adding that Israel “is not going to do anything with the West Bank” amid ongoing peace negotiations.
Vice President JD Vance’s Remarks:
Vance labeled the bill a “stupid political stunt” and emphasized that annexation would not happen under Trump’s leadership.
Strategic Concerns:
Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that unilateral moves could jeopardize the fragile Gaza ceasefire and alienate Arab allies.
Diplomatic Implications:
Trump reiterated that annexation would cross a red line and risk losing U.S. support, citing prior commitments to Arab nations.
Israeli Political Dynamics:
The bill’s preliminary approval reflects internal pressures within Israel’s right-wing factions, though Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Likud party has not formally endorsed it.
The episode underscores the delicate balance of U.S.-Israel relations and the geopolitical sensitivities surrounding territorial claims in the Middle East.
Sources: Reuters, The Hindu, News18, Devdiscourse