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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How might Egypt’s condemnation of these statements influence its diplomatic relationships with other Arab nations?
**Interview with Dr. Layla Hassan, Middle East Policy Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hassan. Egypt has recently condemned statements made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, labeling them as a violation of international law. Can you elaborate on the significance of these statements in the context of Israeli-Palestinian relations?
**Dr. Hassan:** Thank you for having me. Smotrich’s statements are indeed concerning, as they reflect a broader trend within parts of the Israeli government that resists pursuing meaningful peace negotiations. Egypt’s reaction highlights their concern that such rhetoric not only undermines international laws but also diminishes the prospects for a two-state solution, which has long been considered the most viable path to peace.
**Editor:** The Egyptian Foreign Ministry mentioned a “lack of an Israeli partner capable of making courageous decisions.” What does this suggest about the current political landscape in Israel?
**Dr. Hassan:** This underscores a critical challenge within the Israeli political sphere. It suggests that there is a significant divide between the current government and those that might support a diplomatic approach to peace. The emphasis on “courageous decisions” indicates that the Egyptian government feels there is a dire need for leadership willing to take risks for peace—a sentiment echoed by many regional leaders and stakeholders.
**Editor:** There was also reference to an advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice regarding the Israeli occupation. How does this play into Egypt’s reaction?
**Dr. Hassan:** The International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion is pivotal because it provides a legal framework that underlines the illegality of the occupation. By referencing it, Egypt is reinforcing the idea that any statements or actions that deviate from this legal foundation are not just politically irresponsible; they can also have long-term implications under international law. It demonstrates Egypt’s commitment to uphold international norms and signals to the international community that actions must align with these established legal standards.
**Editor:** In light of these developments, what do you see as the next steps for Egypt and the broader Arab world in response to the Israeli government’s approach?
**Dr. Hassan:** Egypt will likely continue to rally support among Arab nations and seek to engage in diplomatic dialogues that emphasize the necessity of returning to peace talks. They might also work through international bodies to ensure that these concerns are addressed on a global platform. The broader Arab world may consolidate efforts to present a united front, calling for a renewed focus on the Palestinian cause and pressing for international accountability regarding violations of international law.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Hassan, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. Your expertise helps shed light on the complexities of this ongoing situation.
**Dr. Hassan:** My pleasure. Thank you for addressing such an important topic.