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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What are the implications of Bezalel Smotrich’s statements for Egypt’s diplomatic stance towards Israel?
**Interview with Dr. Amina El-Sayed, Middle East Affairs Expert**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El-Sayed. There has been a significant response from Egypt regarding Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s recent statements. Can you provide us with some insight into Egypt’s position?
**Dr. El-Sayed**: Thank you for having me. Egypt’s response is rooted in a long-standing commitment to international law and regional stability. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs clearly articulated that Smotrich’s comments are considered a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and resolutions established by the United Nations Security Council. This position underscores Egypt’s serious concerns about the ongoing Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
**Editor**: The statement also highlights a perceived absence of a credible Israeli partner for peace. Why is this significant?
**Dr. El-Sayed**: It’s significant because Egypt has historically played a role in mediating peace efforts in the region. The assertion that there is no Israeli partner willing to make courageous decisions reflects a broader sentiment of frustration. It suggests a stagnation in the peace process, with Egypt worried that extremist rhetoric undermines any potential for dialogue or negotiation.
**Editor**: What does this mean for future relations between Egypt and Israel?
**Dr. El-Sayed**: Relations could become more strained if extremist views continue to dominate Israeli governance. Egypt, being a key player in Arab-Israeli relations, might find it challenging to engage diplomatically if it perceives that its concerns are being ignored. It might lead Egypt to reconsider its strategic alliances and approach to mediation.
**Editor**: In your opinion, what steps should the international community take in light of this situation?
**Dr. El-Sayed**: The international community must renew its commitment to facilitating peace talks. It should encourage dialogue between all parties involved and pressure were necessary to uphold international laws and mainstream human rights. Additionally, addressing the root causes of the conflict is crucial, alongside supporting moderate voices in Israel, to foster an environment conducive to peace.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. El-Sayed, for sharing your insights on this critical issue.
**Dr. El-Sayed**: Thank you for having me. It’s essential we keep the dialogue open and focused on achieving lasting peace in the region.