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 existence 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 importantly their right to self-determination, which is the only and 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 on 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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What are the potential consequences of Egypt’s condemnation of Israeli statements for future peace negotiations?
**Interview with Dr. Lena El-Sayed, Middle Eastern Politics Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El-Sayed. Egypt recently issued a strong statement condemning Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s remarks regarding the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. What do you think are the implications of these statements for Israeli-Egyptian relations?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Thank you for having me. Egypt’s condemnation reflects deepening concerns about the current Israeli government’s stance on the issue of peace and occupation. Smotrich’s statements not only contravene international law but also symbolize a broader Israeli policy that does not prioritize negotiations or dialogue. This could lead to increased tensions between Israel and its neighbors, especially if Egypt perceives a threat to its own security and stability.
**Interviewer:** The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs mentioned a “lack of an Israeli partner” capable of making courageous decisions for peace. How do you interpret this sentiment?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** This statement underscores a profound frustration within Egyptian leadership. It suggests that Egypt feels isolated in its pursuit of peace because it recognizes a significant gap in political will from Israel, particularly among its right-wing factions. Without a partner willing to engage seriously in the peace process, Egypt fears that the prospect for resolution will remain bleak, potentially escalating the conflict further.
**Interviewer:** Given the current geopolitical climate, what steps do you think Egypt might take in response to this situation?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Egypt has historically played a mediating role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and it may continue to leverage its influence in diplomatic channels. However, if it perceives that Israel is not responsive, we could see a shift towards stronger rhetoric in international forums, seeking support from other Arab nations and organizations like the Arab League or even the United Nations.
**Interviewer:** what message do you think this conflict sends to the international community regarding peace negotiations in the region?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** It sends a stark warning that the status quo is untenable. If extremist views within the Israeli government are allowed to shape policy without challenge, the hope for a two-state solution or any meaningful peace process will dwindle. International stakeholders need to recognize the urgency in addressing these divergences if there is any hope for lasting peace in the region.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. El-Sayed, for your insights on this critical issue.
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic.