GCC secretary-general voices disapproval towards Israeli minister's proposals to grow settlements and annex the West Bank.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has strongly condemned statements by Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich regarding the expansion of settlements and the proposed annexation of the occupied West Bank. In a statement, the GCC Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi described Smotrich's calls as "dangerous and suspicious," indicating the occupation's continued approach to destabilizing security and stability in the region.

The most recent announcement about a plan to annex the West Bank was made by Minister Smotrich in 2023. He presented a plan developed by the new Settlement Administration division of the Defense Ministry, calling for applying Israeli sovereignty over Judea and Samaria (the Israeli term for the West Bank) as a preemptive step against diplomatic recognition of Palestine by other states. At a press conference in Jerusalem, Smotrich presented a map suggesting the annexation of most of the West Bank, leaving out six major Palestinian cities, including Ramallah and Nablus.

The GCC reaffirmed its firm support for the Palestinian people in resisting such policies. Al-Budaiwi emphasized that the actions violate international conventions and represent ongoing violations of international laws and norms. The GCC did not indicate any direct action it plans to take in response to Israel's proposed annexation, but it did reiterate its backing of the Palestinian people's legitimate rights.

The GCC also emphasized its unwavering commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the June 4, 1967 borders. East Jerusalem was emphasized as the proposed capital of the independent Palestinian state. The Secretary-General urged the international community to take "immediate and deterrent measures" to halt the provocative statements and practices by Israeli authorities regarding West Bank annexation. However, the Secretary-General did not specify any particular measures the international community should take.

Interestingly, the GCC's statement did not mention any other regional or international bodies it plans to engage with regarding this issue. Nor did it address any potential negotiations or diplomatic efforts with Israel. The GCC did not mention any potential consequences for Israel if its policies continue.

This development comes at a time of increasing tension in the Middle East, with ongoing conflicts and disputes threatening the peace and stability of the region. The GCC's strong condemnation of Israel's proposed annexation of the West Bank is a clear indication of the international community's growing concern over these actions and the need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

GCC secretary-general voices disapproval towards Israeli minister's proposals to grow settlements and annex the West Bank.