Why Did Jordan Condemn Israeli Minister's Remarks on West Bank 'Annexation'?
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Synopsis
In a bold statement, Jordan's Foreign Ministry condemned Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's remarks on West Bank annexation, emphasizing the urgent need for a two-state solution. This article explores the implications of these comments on regional security and international law.
Key Takeaways
- Jordan condemns Israeli annexation remarks as illegal.
- The Israeli occupation is seen as a root cause of conflict.
- Calls for a two-state solution to achieve peace.
- International accountability is critical to ending aggression.
- Jordan stresses the need for a sovereign Palestinian state along 1967 borders.
Amman, Sep 4 (NationPress) The comments made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich regarding the 'annexation' of the West Bank blatantly breach international law, heighten regional tensions, and undermine the global commitment to a two-state solution, according to a statement from Jordan's Foreign Ministry.
Israel lacks sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territories, the Ministry stated on Wednesday. It further criticized the Israeli government's ongoing expansionist activities and the 'racist statements' of its officials, which incite 'cycles of violence and conflict' and jeopardize the security and stability of the entire region.
The Ministry highlighted that the Israeli 'occupation' is the root cause of the conflict and a significant source of regional instability, condemning Israel's 'policies of forced displacement' in the occupied Palestinian territories.
It asserted that the only viable path to attaining regional security and stability is by ending the Israeli 'occupation' and establishing an independent Palestinian state based on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Earlier on Wednesday, Smotrich presented an Israeli proposal to annex 82 percent of the occupied West Bank during a press conference in Jerusalem, aiming to obstruct the formation of a Palestinian state, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
'It's time to impose Israeli sovereignty' in the West Bank, he stated, expressing his desire for 'maximum territory and minimum (Palestinian) population.'
According to Israel's state-owned Kan TV News, the country is contemplating the annexation of the West Bank in response to several European nations' intentions to recognize the State of Palestine during the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York.
Moreover, the Times of Israel reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to hold a Ministerial meeting on Thursday, which will include Smotrich, to discuss the application of Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank.
Jordanian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Fuad Majali reiterated the Kingdom's 'unreserved rejection and strong condemnation' of the repeated provocative actions and rhetoric from members of the Israeli government.
He emphasized that the ongoing lack of international accountability and a prevailing culture of impunity have encouraged such officials to continue their aggressive policies against the Palestinian people and leadership.
Majali asserted that Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza, along with the extremist rhetoric from some officials, will not diminish the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people or the validity of their cause.
He pointed out that the Israeli occupation remains the central issue fueling the conflict and regional instability, accusing Israeli extremists of trying to deepen the occupation, expand illegal settlements, and enforce forced displacement, 'all in clear violation of international law and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334.'
This resolution, adopted in 2016, condemns actions aimed at altering the demographic makeup and legal status of Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem.
Majali also referenced the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which confirmed the illegality of annexing occupied land and emphasized the necessity to end the occupation.
He warned that Israel's unilateral actions and racist rhetoric threaten to incite further cycles of violence and pose a significant risk to regional security and stability.
Reaffirming Jordan's opposition to illegal settlement expansion and displacement policies, Majali stressed that a fair and lasting peace can only be achieved through the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The Spokesperson concluded by urging the international community to fulfill its legal and moral responsibilities by pressuring Israel to halt its aggression in Gaza and the West Bank, cease official incitement, protect the Palestinian people, and ensure accountability for violations of international law.
Point of View
I acknowledge the sensitive nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Jordan's condemnation of Smotrich's remarks underscores the ongoing concerns regarding international law and regional stability. The path to peace remains challenging, but it is evident that dialogue and respect for legal frameworks are essential for fostering understanding and cooperation.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jordan's Foreign Ministry say about Smotrich's remarks?
Jordan's Foreign Ministry condemned Smotrich's comments as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability, emphasizing the need for a two-state solution.
What is the significance of the two-state solution?
The two-state solution aims to establish an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, promoting peace and coexistence in the region.
What actions has Israel taken regarding the West Bank?
Israel has proposed annexing significant portions of the West Bank, which has raised concerns about the future of Palestinian statehood and regional stability.
How does international law view the Israeli occupation?
International law considers the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories as illegal and calls for the end of such actions to ensure peace and justice.
What role does Jordan play in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
Jordan has historically been a key player in advocating for Palestinian rights and has called for a fair resolution to the conflict based on international law.
