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 key implications of Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s statements on the peace process in the Middle East?
**Interview with Dr. Amal Farouk, Middle Eastern Policy Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Farouk. Recently, Egypt condemned statements made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, calling them a violation of international law and Security Council resolutions. What was your initial reaction to these statements?
**Dr. Amal Farouk:** Thank you for having me. Smotrich’s comments are indeed alarming and highlight ongoing tensions. Egypt’s response underscores a deep-seated frustration with what they see as Israel’s reluctance to engage in meaningful peace negotiations. This is not just a diplomatic spat; it reflects broader regional dynamics and sentiments.
**Interviewer:** The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described Smotrich’s statements as “irresponsible and extremist.” What do you think this characterizes in terms of Israeli domestic politics?
**Dr. Amal Farouk:** Smotrich’s rhetoric represents a faction within the Israeli government that is increasingly resistant to compromise. It reveals a trend towards more hardline policies, which many fear could hinder the peace process and exacerbate the already fragile situation. This can lead to a lack of cooperation with moderate voices in Israel who may wish to pursue dialogue.
**Interviewer:** Egypt also indicated a lack of an Israeli partner who is willing to make courageous decisions. Can you elaborate on what that means for the peace process?
**Dr. Amal Farouk:** Absolutely. For any peace process to be successful, there needs to be leadership on both sides willing to take risks. Egypt’s statement suggests that they believe current Israeli leadership is not prepared to make the necessary concessions for peace. This leaves Palestinians feeling abandoned and skeptical of any prospects for dialogue. It’s a cycle that perpetuates conflict.
**Interviewer:** In light of this situation, what role do you think Egypt can play moving forward?
**Dr. Amal Farouk:** Egypt has historically been a mediator in Israeli-Palestinian relations. They can continue to leverage their diplomatic channels to advocate for renewed negotiations and promote regional stability. Furthermore, they may also need to engage with other Arab nations to present a united front and encourage a more balanced dialogue that acknowledges the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Farouk, for your insights on this critical issue.
**Dr. Amal Farouk:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue to discuss these issues and promote peace in the region.
