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 notably their right to self-determination, which is the only and practical solution to end the conflict in the region and get 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 Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s controversial statements on international law for Middle Eastern diplomacy?
**Interview with Dr. Layla Hassan, Middle Eastern Political Analyst and Human Rights Advocate**
**Interviewer (I):** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hassan. We’ve seen recent statements from Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich that have stirred controversy. Egypt has described them as a blatant violation of international law. What are your thoughts on the significance of these remarks?
**Dr. Hassan (DH):** Thank you for having me. Smotrich’s statements indeed represent a troubling attitude that undermines the delicate balance required for peace in the region. Egypt’s response highlights the growing frustration among Arab nations regarding the Israeli government’s refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue and their apparent disregard for international norms.
**I:** The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has linked these statements to a broader refusal to adopt a peace option. How do these sentiments reflect the current state of Israeli-Palestinian relations?
**DH:** The statement from Egypt captures an essential truth—the absence of a genuine peace partner on the Israeli side is becoming increasingly apparent. With leaders making provocative remarks that breach international laws and lack recognition of Palestinian rights, it signals a retreat from dialogue. This further entrenches divisions and complicates any prospects for a peaceful resolution.
**I:** In the context of international law and humanitarian concerns, how critical is it for the global community to respond to such statements?
**DH:** The international community must take these statements seriously. The principles outlined by the International Court of Justice and previous UN resolutions are not mere suggestions; they are fundamental to achieving long-lasting peace. Silence or inaction in response to blatant violations can embolden those who perpetuate conflict, making it crucial for global leaders to address these issues firmly.
**I:** what steps do you believe could foster a more constructive path forward for Israeli-Palestinian relations?
**DH:** Constructive dialogue must be prioritized. Engagements facilitated by neutral international bodies, fostering grassroots initiatives for peaceful coexistence, and ensuring accountability for violations of international law are key steps. Also, it requires courageous leaders on both sides who are willing to confront tough decisions and move towards compromise. The time for action is now; we cannot afford further inaction.
**I:** Thank you, Dr. Hassan, for your insights. The situation remains complex and sensitive, and it’s vital that we continue to explore paths toward peace and justice in the region.
**DH:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these critical issues.