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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How can international actors influence the peace negotiations between Israel and its neighbors effectively?
**Interview with Dr. Fatima El-Sayed, Middle East Affairs Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El-Sayed. Recently, Egypt condemned statements made by Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich, calling them a violation of international law. What are your thoughts on Egypt’s response?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Thank you for having me. Egypt’s response highlights a broader concern regarding the Israeli government’s current stance on peace negotiations. By labeling Smotrich’s remarks as irresponsible and extremist, Egypt is emphasizing the need for compliance with international standards and the importance of dialogue based on mutual respect.
**Editor:** The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also mentioned a “lack of an Israeli partner capable of making courageous decisions.” What implications does this claim have for the peace process?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** This assertion underscores a significant challenge in the peace process. If leaders in Israel exhibit a reluctance to pursue serious negotiations, as indicated by Smotrich’s comments, it creates a vacuum where constructive dialogue becomes increasingly difficult. The lack of a consensus government that is open to compromises can stall any hope for progress.
**Editor:** Why do you think statements like Smotrich’s provoke such strong reactions from neighboring countries like Egypt?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Statements that undermine international law and humanitarian principles are not just about political rhetoric—they reflect broader historical grievances and ongoing conflicts. For Egypt and other Arab nations, these statements can reignite frustrations over past injustices. Strong responses are intended to reaffirm regional solidarity and convey that such rhetoric is unacceptable.
**Editor:** What steps can be taken to foster a more constructive dialogue between Israel and its neighbors?
**Dr. El-Sayed:** It’s essential that Israeli leaders engage with varying voices within their society who advocate for peace. Additionally, international stakeholders, including the U.S. and European nations, must actively facilitate dialogue and encourage both sides to commit to peaceful resolutions. Creating an environment for trust-building and addressing core issues can pave the way for meaningful negotiations.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. El-Sayed, for sharing your insights on this critical issue.
**Dr. El-Sayed:** Thank you for discussing such an important topic. I hope to see progress in the near future.