Donald Trump has sent a clear message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: there will be no green light from Washington for the annexation of the West Bank. The president’s public declaration that he “will not allow” such a move effectively vetoes the plans of the Israeli far-right and imposes a significant constraint on Netanyahu’s government as he prepared to address the United Nations.
This stance represents a crucial clarification of US policy, especially given the recent fears of allies like the UK, France, and Australia. These nations, after recognizing a Palestinian state, had been worried that Trump would retaliate by formally recognizing Israeli control over its West Bank settlements. Instead, Trump has aligned with their position against unilateral actions.
The decision was heavily influenced by a robust lobbying campaign from both European and Arab capitals. Leaders from across the Middle East met with Trump to warn of the catastrophic consequences of annexation. According to Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister, Trump was receptive and understood the gravity of their concerns, indicating the diplomatic pressure had its intended effect.
The situation on the ground in the West Bank remains tense, with some 700,000 Israeli settlers living in territories captured in 1967. The expansion of these settlements, particularly through strategic projects like the E1 plan which threatens to bisect the West Bank, is seen by Palestinians and the international community as a major impediment to peace and the viability of a future state.
This announcement is also a key element in the broader context of US peacemaking efforts, which are currently focused on a 21-point plan to end the Gaza war. Trump expressed optimism about this initiative after talks with Netanyahu and other Middle Eastern leaders. His focus remains on securing the return of hostages and achieving a lasting peace to halt the conflict, which has caused immense destruction and a famine crisis.