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 can Egypt effectively balance its role as a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict while criticizing extremist rhetoric?
**Interview with Dr. Ahmed El-Sayed, Middle Eastern Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El-Sayed. Egypt recently condemned statements made by Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich, calling them a violation of international law. What specific aspects of Smotrich’s comments do you think prompted such a strong reaction from the Egyptian government?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Thank you for having me. Smotrich’s statements are perceived as undermining the framework of international law that governs the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly the consensus established by various Security Council resolutions and the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice. By dismissing these legal foundations, he raises concerns about Israel’s commitment to peace and stability in the region.
**Editor:** The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described Smotrich’s statements as ”irresponsible and extremist.” How do such comments impact the chances for peace between Israel and the Palestinians?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Such rhetoric can be extremely damaging. It reflects a broader Israeli trend that Egypt identifies—one of rejecting peace initiatives and lacking a genuine partner for dialogue. It not only entrenches divisions but also alienates potential mediators and allies who are crucial for any peace process. Smotrich’s comments suggest a willingness to continue aggressive policies rather than pursue constructive dialogue.
**Editor:** You mentioned the concept of an “Israeli partner capable of making courageous decisions.” What does this mean in the current political climate?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** It signifies the need for Israeli leadership willing to take risks for peace, such as tackling settlement expansions and recognition of Palestinian rights. Currently, the climate is quite polarized, with elements within Israel resisting significant concessions. Both sides need leaders who can galvanize their constituencies toward mutual agreement rather than conflict.
**Editor:** Egypt has positioned itself as a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. How does it navigate these vocal disagreements while maintaining that role?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Egypt’s challenge is to balance its criticisms of Israeli policies with its role as a mediator. For Egypt, maintaining diplomatic relations while advocating for Palestinian rights is essential. By voicing concerns over extremist rhetoric, Egypt demonstrates its commitment to international law without completely severing ties, which would diminish its influence in the peace process.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. El-Sayed. It will be interesting to see how these developments unfold in the context of regional stability and international relations.
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial time for the future of the region, and I hope for constructive dialogue moving forward.