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 international humanitarian law influence negotiations between Israel and Palestinian authorities moving forward?
**Interview with Dr. Layla Ahmed, Political Analyst and Middle East Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ahmed. Egypt has condemned recent statements made by Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich as a blatant violation of international law. Can you explain the significance of these remarks in the current geopolitical climate?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Thank you for having me. Smotrich’s statements are indeed significant and reflect a growing concern among Arab nations regarding Israel’s approach to the Palestinian issue. Egypt’s reaction underscores the frustration over what they perceive as a refusal by some Israeli officials to engage in peace talks, which could pave the way for a two-state solution.
**Interviewer:** Egypt’s Foreign Ministry also mentioned an “absence of an Israeli partner capable of making courageous decisions for peace.” What does this mean for future negotiations between Israel and Palestinian authorities?
**Dr. Ahmed:** This sentiment indicates a deep skepticism about Israel’s willingness to negotiate sincerely. When leaders like Smotrich make inflammatory comments, it signals a hardening of positions within the Israeli government. For peace talks to be successful, both sides need to feel that there is a genuine commitment to dialogue, which seems increasingly absent at the moment.
**Interviewer:** The statement referenced international humanitarian law and the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion. How crucial are these legal frameworks in the ongoing conflict?
**Dr. Ahmed:** These legal frameworks are essential because they provide a basis for the rights and obligations of both parties. Violations of international law can have broader implications, as they may influence international opinion and diplomatic relations. Egypt’s emphasis on these points suggests they are trying to rally support and maintain the legitimacy of Palestinian claims on the international stage.
**Interviewer:** What potential actions could Egypt and other Arab nations take in response to these developments?
**Dr. Ahmed:** Egypt historically plays a mediating role, and they may seek to engage in diplomatic initiatives or foster alliances with other Arab nations to present a unified front. Furthermore, they could advocate for international intervention or increased pressure on Israel through diplomatic channels, aiming to revive peace talks by putting a spotlight on these incendiary remarks.
**Interviewer:** what is your assessment of the way forward for peace in the region, given the current tensions?
**Dr. Ahmed:** The road to peace remains fraught with challenges, especially with the rise of more hardline sentiments in Israel. However, it’s crucial for moderate voices to prevail. Continued dialogue, coupled with international support for legitimate grievances, may help create a conducive environment for peace talks. Ultimately, it requires courage and compromise from all parties involved.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Ahmed, for your insights on this complex issue.
**Dr. Ahmed:** Thank you for having me.
