Egypt considered Smotrich‘s statements a blatant violation of international law, international humanitarian law, and all relevant Security Council resolutions, in addition to the advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice on the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories.
According to a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “The Arab Republic of Egypt affirms that these irresponsible and extremist statements from a member of the Israeli government clearly reflect the Israeli tendency to refuse to adopt the peace option in the region, the absence of an Israeli partner capable of making courageous decisions to bring about peace, and the presence of an insistence on adopting a policy of arrogance, which is the same policy.” Which brought the region into the current cycle of conflict.”
The statement added that these “extremist” statements are in stark contrast to the position of the international community calling for ending the occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Egypt stressed its rejection of these “reprehensible” statements that fuel extremism and violence, stressing the international responsibility to protect the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, most notably their right to self-determination, which is the only practical solution to end the conflict in the region and break out of the cycle of violence and destruction, warning against continuing the escalation approach. And extremism aims to prolong, inflame and expand the conflict.
Earlier yesterday, Monday, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich welcomed during a meeting in the Knesset the victory of Donald Trump in the US presidential elections, considering it an opportunity to annex the West Bank to Israel.
Smotrich considered that “the year 2025 will be the year of sovereignty over Judea and Samaria (the West Bank), noting that “instructions have been issued to the Settlement Directorate in the Ministry of Security and the Civil Administration to begin work on preparing the infrastructure required to impose sovereignty.”
Smotrich added, “There is now a broad consensus in the coalition and the opposition from all parts of the Knesset to oppose the establishment of a Palestinian state that would pose a threat to the existence of Israel.”
Source: RT
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How might the current Israeli government’s stance affect its relationships with other Arab nations moving forward?
**Interview with Dr. Layla Ibrahim, Middle East Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ibrahim. The recent statements made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have sparked a significant response from Egypt. Can you share your thoughts on why Egypt deemed these comments a violation of international law?
**Dr. Ibrahim:** Thank you for having me. Egypt’s condemnation of Smotrich’s statements is rooted in their interpretation of international law and humanitarian standards. His remarks have been seen as directly undermining ongoing efforts for peace in the region, and they contradict the various international norms established to protect human rights in conflict zones, particularly considering the ongoing Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
**Editor:** The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described these comments as reflecting a refusal to pursue peace. In what ways do you see this playing out in the broader context of Israeli-Arab relations?
**Dr. Ibrahim:** The statements by Smotrich resonate with a broader sentiment of frustration in the Arab world regarding Israel’s leadership. There is a growing perception that the current Israeli government is not open to negotiations or compromise, which only exacerbates tensions. Egypt’s position highlights a critical point: for any peace process to proceed, there must be a partner willing to engage constructively, and many in the Arab world feel that this is lacking at present.
**Editor:** Egypt has emphasized the importance of courageous decisions necessary for peace. What specific actions do you think the Israeli government should take to foster a more conducive climate for negotiations?
**Dr. Ibrahim:** For the Israeli government to build trust, it could begin by recognizing Palestinian rights more explicitly, halting settlement expansion, and re-engaging in dialogue through recognized channels. A gesture of goodwill—like easing restrictions on movement for Palestinians or addressing humanitarian needs—could significantly alter perceptions and show a genuine commitment to peace.
**Editor:** Lastly, how might this situation evolve if such statements and hostilities continue to escalate?
**Dr. Ibrahim:** If statements like Smotrich’s continue unchallenged, we could face an intensification of regional tensions, potentially straining relationships not only with Egypt but across the Arab world. This might lead to increased isolation for Israel and could also endanger any remnants of the peace process. Ultimately, it risks further entrenching divisions and fueling conflicts that have long-lasting implications for stability in the region.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Ibrahim, for your insights on this critical issue. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Ibrahim:** Thank you for having me; it’s always a pleasure to discuss these important matters.
