What’s happening
In light of Donald Trump’s triumph in the US presidential election, prominent Israeli voices are urging for the annexation of the West Bank. This movement is supported by far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. Leading figures such as Israel Ganz from the Yesha Council and Shai Alon of Beit El are advocating for Israeli sovereignty and expansion efforts in this region, an initiative they assert could lead to true peace and stability.
Why it matters
The proposed annexation reflects a significant shift in policy that may redefine geopolitical dynamics in the region. Trump, who has been perceived as a friend to Israel, embodies a potential ally in these aspirations, marking a new chapter in Israeli strategy regarding Judea and Samaria. With support from local government officials and settler leaders, this could be the dawn of increased development and integration of these territories into Israel.
Driving the news
Ben Gvir, based in Kiryat Arba settlement, insisted in the Knesset plenum that “this is the time for sovereignty,” encouraging a bold legislative push towards unifying Judea and Samaria with Israel. During past efforts under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a potential annexation faced diplomatic hurdles. However, current sentiments buoyed by Trump’s return could revive hopes. Now more than ever, Israeli leaders aim to seize this moment to unencumber settlements from sanctions imposed under the Biden administration, unleashing renewed vigor in building and expansion efforts.
What they’re saying
In a spirit of revival, the establishment of Israel’s identity throughout Judea and Samaria has been championed. Israel Ganz, hailing Trump’s allegiance to Israel, extolled the possibilities with renewed enthusiasm. Regionally, Alon hailed Trump’s election as the ushering of a “golden age for settlement,” demanding immediate action to integrate the West Bank fully into the Israeli national landscape. Denouncing the two-state solution, Alon echoed a prevailing sentiment: “There will not be two states here… this region is part of complete Israel.”
The bigger picture
Trump’s tenure previously extended an unparalleled offer for a demilitarized Palestinian state encumbered with strategies that pivot largely towards Israeli interests such as annexe extensive swathes of the West Bank, especially the Jordan Valley. The settlement movement, poised for expansion and enforceable security measures, dismisses measures that once envisioned a Palestinian state. Trump’s ascendency seems a dawn of wide-eyed opportunities – fortifying Jewish statehood across contested territories.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.