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 yesterday, 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 leverage its historical role to promote a renewed peace dialogue between Israel and Palestine?
**Interview with Dr. Amina Hassan, Expert in Middle Eastern Affairs**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hassan. Egypt has recently criticized Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s statements as a blatant violation of international law. Can you elaborate on what specific statements prompted this reaction?
**Dr. Hassan:** Thank you for having me. Smotrich’s remarks touched upon the Israeli government’s position regarding the Palestinian territories, which many view as a rejection of international legal frameworks. Egypt’s strong response highlights its commitment to upholding international humanitarian law and the resolutions set by the United Nations Security Council. Smotrich’s statements suggest a disregard for these principles, which has understandably ignited concern and condemnation from Egypt and other Arab states.
**Editor:** The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs mentioned that such statements reflect an Israeli refusal to pursue peace. How does this fit into the broader context of Israeli-Palestinian relations?
**Dr. Hassan:** The peace process has been fraught with challenges for decades. Egypt’s statement indicates that there is a growing frustration with the lack of a genuine partner for peace within the Israeli government. Smotrich’s rhetoric is seen as representative of a larger trend where hardline and extremist views overshadow any efforts for reconciliation. This resistance not only undermines the possibility of a two-state solution but also exacerbates tensions in an already volatile region.
**Editor:** In light of this situation, what role do you believe Egypt can play moving forward?
**Dr. Hassan:** Egypt has historically been a key mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Given its geopolitical position and historical ties to both sides, Cairo can utilize its influence to advocate for renewed dialogue and pressure for compliance with international law. It can also rally support from other Arab states and international actors to push back against extremist views and promote a framework for peace that includes respect for human rights and self-determination for the Palestinian people.
**Editor:** what do you think the international community’s role should be in addressing these issues?
**Dr. Hassan:** The international community must take a more active stance in reaffirming its commitment to international law and human rights in this context. This includes calling out rhetoric that undermines peace efforts, supporting initiatives for conflict resolution, and ensuring that all parties are held accountable. A unified approach that includes diplomatic pressure, economic incentives, and affirmations of support for a just peace will be crucial in breaking the current deadlock and fostering a more stable region.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Hassan, for your insights. It will be interesting to see how these developments unfold and what impact they will have on the future of peace in the region.
