Image Credit: X account @SecRubio
U.S. Warns Israel on West Bank Annexation
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that any move by Israel to annex parts of the West Bank could undermine President Donald Trump’s peace initiative aimed at stabilising Gaza. The warning followed a preliminary vote in the Israeli Knesset on a bill proposing sovereignty over parts of the occupied territory.
Risk to Gaza Peace Efforts
Rubio stressed that annexation would weaken the fragile ceasefire in Gaza and derail Trump’s broader reconstruction and peace strategy. He noted that stability in Gaza requires cooperation and cautioned that unilateral steps could erode international support.
Vance Labels Vote “Counter-Productive”
U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, during a recent visit to Israel, also criticised the parliamentary vote, describing it as unnecessary and damaging to long-term peace goals. He urged restraint from Israeli lawmakers.
Netanyahu’s Office Dismisses Bill
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office downplayed the vote, calling it a political stunt without government backing. Officials said the proposal does not represent official policy, though critics warned it could still harm Israel’s ties with Arab states.
