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 notably their right to self-determination, which is the only and practical solution to end the conflict in the region and get 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 can the international community effectively respond to the challenges highlighted by Dr. Sara El-Amin regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
**Interview with Dr. Sara El-Amin, Middle East Policy Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El-Amin. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently condemned comments made by Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich, describing them as a violation of international law. Can you provide us with some context on the significance of these remarks?
**Dr. El-Amin:** Thank you for having me. Smotrich’s statements reflect a broader narrative within some segments of the Israeli government that diverges from peace negotiations and international legal standards. Egypt’s response highlights the importance of international law and the need for a viable two-state solution. By labeling these comments as “irresponsible and extremist,” Egypt is not only expressing its discontent but also underscoring the potential escalation of tensions in the region if such views gain traction.
**Editor:** Egypt’s statement mentioned the absence of an ”Israeli partner capable of making courageous decisions.” What does this imply for future peace negotiations?
**Dr. El-Amin:** It suggests a deep disappointment in the current Israeli leadership’s willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Palestinians. For peace negotiations to succeed, there needs to be a compromised willingness to confront difficult issues, and Egypt is signaling that it sees a lack of such commitment. This raises concerns about the future of peace talks and the potential for further escalation of the conflict.
**Editor:** The reference to the advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice is notable. How impactful is this in the context of international law?
**Dr. El-Amin:** The advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice is significant because it sets a legal framework that categorically opposes the ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories. Egypt’s invocation of this opinion serves to remind the international community of its obligations under international law, positioning Egypt as a defender of Palestinians’ rights while also pressing for adherence to these principles by all parties.
**Editor:** In light of these developments, what should be the response from the international community?
**Dr. El-Amin:** The international community must prioritize diplomatic engagement and hold all parties accountable for their actions. It’s crucial to reiterate the importance of adhering to international law, supporting the pursuit of peace through negotiated settlements, and finding a balance between security needs and humanitarian considerations. Active involvement from global powers is also essential in ensuring that diplomatic avenues are pursued and not abandoned.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. El-Amin, for your insights. It’s clear that the situation remains complex and requires careful navigation moving forward.
**Dr. El-Amin:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue this conversation as developments unfold.
