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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How might the current political climate in Israel affect international mediation efforts in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
**Interview with Dr. Fatima Al-Masri, Expert in International Relations and Middle Eastern Politics**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Al-Masri. Egypt’s recent condemnation of Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s statements is quite significant. Can you elaborate on the implications of Egypt’s characterization of these remarks as a violation of international law?
**Dr. Al-Masri:** Thank you for having me. Egypt’s stance underscores the delicate balance of power and influence in the region. By labeling Smotrich’s statements as a violation of international law, Egypt is asserting not only its position but also reaffirming its commitment to international norms that govern state behavior. Such a response highlights the broader concern among Arab nations regarding Israel’s policies and actions in the occupied territories.
**Editor:** The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs referenced an absence of an Israeli partner capable of making courageous decisions for peace. What does this imply for the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations?
**Dr. Al-Masri:** This statement suggests a deep frustration within the Arab world over the stalled peace process. It indicates that, from Egypt’s perspective, the current Israeli leadership is not willing or able to engage in meaningful dialogue. Without a partner committed to peace, the prospects for a two-state solution or any viable resolution seem increasingly bleak.
**Editor:** You mentioned international norms. How important are international institutions, like the International Court of Justice, in influencing the actions of states regarding this dispute?
**Dr. Al-Masri:** International institutions play a crucial role in setting standards and providing platforms for accountability. The advisory opinions of bodies like the International Court of Justice serve as vital references for legal arguments. However, their effectiveness often hinges on the willingness of states to adhere to these standards. When countries like Israel dismiss such opinions, it raises concerns about the overall respect for international law and the future of global governance.
**Editor:** what do you believe is the appropriate next step for Egypt and other Arab nations in responding to the current rhetoric from the Israeli government?
**Dr. Al-Masri:** Egypt, along with other Arab nations, must continue to advocate for diplomatic engagement and a return to negotiations based on established frameworks like the Oslo Accords. Public diplomacy, along with a united Arab front, can exert pressure on Israel to reconsider its approach. Additionally, leveraging international platforms to bring attention to violations may help in creating a more conducive environment for peace.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Al-Masri. Your insights on this complex issue are invaluable as we navigate these challenging geopolitical dynamics.
