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 importantly their right to self-determination, which is the only and 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 potential consequences of Bezalel Smotrich’s remarks on Israeli-Palestinian relations?
**Interview with Ahmed Fathy, Political Analyst and Middle East Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Ahmed. The recent comments from Israel’s Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, have drawn significant condemnation, particularly from the European Union and Egypt. Can you give us your insight into the impact of these remarks?
**Ahmed Fathy:** Thank you for having me. Smotrich’s statements have indeed stirred a lot of controversy and criticism. Egypt’s reaction, labeling the comments as a blatant violation of international law, underscores the ongoing tensions in the region. His remarks not only reflect a disregard for humanitarian principles but also signal a troubling direction for Israeli policy towards the Palestinians.
**Editor:** The Egyptian Foreign Ministry also mentioned the lack of a credible Israeli partner for peace. What does this imply for the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations?
**Ahmed Fathy:** This assertion highlights a pervasive sentiment among Arab nations that the current Israeli government is not genuinely pursuing peace. With leaders in place who seem to embrace extremist views, the opportunity for constructive dialogue seems increasingly elusive. It suggests that any potential for reconciliation or diplomatic breakthroughs is severely hampered by such attitudes.
**Editor:** The EU has also condemned Smotrich’s remarks. How important is international pressure in this context?
**Ahmed Fathy:** International pressure can play a crucial role. It can influence domestic policies and shape the international narrative surrounding the conflict. The EU’s strong condemnation sends a clear message that such extremist rhetoric is unacceptable. It also reaffirms the necessity for adherence to international law and humanitarian standards as fundamental to any peace process.
**Editor:** In light of these developments, what steps do you believe should be taken by the international community?
**Ahmed Fathy:** The international community must remain vocal and united in condemning inflammatory rhetoric and actions that undermine peace efforts. Engaging in sustained diplomatic pressure, providing support for organizations that promote dialogue, and holding leaders accountable for their statements and policies are essential steps. Only through a concerted and consistent effort can we hope to create an environment conducive to peace in the region.
**Editor:** Thank you, Ahmed, for your valuable insights on this pressing issue.
**Ahmed Fathy:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss these important matters.