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 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 implications of Egypt’s strong condemnation of Israeli statements for future diplomatic relations in the region?
**Interview with Dr. Layla Hassan, Middle East Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hassan. Egypt recently condemned comments made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, labeling them as a blatant violation of international law. What do you think prompted such a strong response from the Egyptian government?
**Dr. Hassan:** Thank you for having me. Egypt’s response stems from longstanding tensions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Smotrich’s statements likely touched a nerve, as they are perceived as undermining both international humanitarian law and existing frameworks for peace. Egypt, having played historically an integral role in mediating peace in the region, views such comments as an indication of an unwillingness from the Israeli side to engage in constructive dialogue.
**Editor:** The Egyptian Foreign Ministry mentioned a “lack of an Israeli partner” for peace. How significant is this claim in light of current regional dynamics?
**Dr. Hassan:** It’s quite significant. The statement reflects a broader frustration not only from Egypt but from many Arab nations who feel that current Israeli leadership is reluctant to make necessary compromises. This perception creates a considerable barrier to peace efforts. It implies that without a partner willing to embrace the peace process, any diplomatic endeavors will struggle to gain traction.
**Editor:** In the context of international law and the recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice regarding the Israeli occupation, what role does Egypt foresee for international bodies moving forward?
**Dr. Hassan:** Egypt seems to be advocating for increased international oversight and engagement. The call for adherence to international law is vital in holding entities accountable. Egypt likely wishes to see a more proactive role from international organizations, including the United Nations, to ensure that dialogue remains viable and that there are mechanisms in place to support peace initiatives, rather than allowing unilateral statements and policies to dictate the course of events.
**Editor:** Lastly, how does this situation impact the prospects for peace in the Middle East?
**Dr. Hassan:** It certainly complicates them. Statements like Smotrich’s contribute to a cycle of mistrust and exacerbate tensions. For peace to be achievable, there needs to be a concerted effort from all parties to engage in dialogue, acknowledging each other’s rights and aspirations. Without a real commitment to peace from the Israeli government, and with reactions like Egypt’s, we may find ourselves facing further stagnation in the peace process.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Hassan, for your insights on this pressing issue.
**Dr. Hassan:** Thank you for having me. It’s a critical moment for the region, and discussions like this are essential for progress.
