UAE issues alert to Israel: Annexation of West Bank could jeopardize Abraham Accords
Israel's advancement in occupying the West Bank has sparked international concern and regional tensions, with key players expressing their opposition to potential annexation.
Israel's Economy Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, a settler resident in Kedumim, has proposed extending Israeli sovereignty to 82% of Judea and Samaria (West Bank), a move that aims to fulfill the maxim of "maximum territory, minimum Arabs."
Smotrich's proposal has been met with criticism from neighbouring countries. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has condemned Israel's annexation plan as a "red line," with the UAE's envoy, Lana Nusseibeh, stating that annexation would impede regional integration and spell the death of the two-state solution.
The Saudis have also expressed their rejection of annexation plans and support the two-state solution. This rejection is a warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the fifth anniversary of the Abraham Accords approaches.
The plans for the West Bank are clearer than those Israel's authorities have for Gaza. A key settlement project, E1, announced by a settler minister, will divide the West Bank into two parts and isolate eastern Jerusalem. This move has cut off communication between Palestinian communities, further escalating tensions in the region.
Meanwhile, ultranationalists aim to ensure Jewish supremacy in a land they believe was given to the Jews by God. This ideology has led to the advancement of a military campaign in Gaza, with Israeli security officials warning that they are heading towards the military administration of the Strip.
The military campaign in Gaza is being investigated as genocide by international justice. The only public plan for Gaza is Trump's Middle East Riviera, which proposes the expulsion of 2 million Gazans.
France, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Belgium have announced plans to recognize the Palestinian state, a move that could further escalate tensions in the region. The UAE's rejection of annexation is a significant step towards maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East.
As the situation in the West Bank and Gaza continues to evolve, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize diplomacy and dialogue to achieve a lasting peace.
