Israeli Government Takes First Steps Toward Implementing West Bank Annexation Plan

The Hebrew-language newspaper Maariv reported that Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has effectively initiated the first step in executing the plan to annex the West Bank. This follows the approval by the Ministerial Committee of a proposed law allowing Jews to own land in the West Bank.

The newspaper highlighted that this move is a critical step toward annexation. In 2022, the Israeli High Court of Justice rejected a petition from the “Regavim” organization to change the law, stating that it was a political matter that should be addressed through legislation.

The proposal, spearheaded by Knesset member Moshe Solomon from the “Religious Zionism” party, gained momentum following the committee’s approval. Solomon stated, “As the chairman of the Subcommittee on West Bank Affairs, I proposed the bill in collaboration with the Regavim movement to eliminate discrimination in purchasing land in the West Bank. I have been working to advance this legislation for the past two years.”

He continued, “I faced opposition from then-Defense Minister Yoav Galant and the security establishment. However, I am proud to collaborate with the current Defense Minister, Israel Katz.” He further noted, “The law has garnered support in the Ministerial Committee for Legislation and will soon be brought to a vote in the Knesset.”

Maariv also touched upon statements made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, in which he expressed a desire to see Jordan, Egypt, and other Arab nations increase the number of Palestinian refugees they accept from Gaza.

The report noted that Trump believes this step is essential for “cleaning the war-torn region to create a new foundation.” He shared his vision with Jordan’s King Abdullah II and mentioned his intention to discuss it with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi as well.

The newspaper revealed that sources indicate the proposal involves the temporary departure of some Palestinians from Gaza for a period of six months to a year, with their return planned for early 2026.

Despite Sisi’s rejection, an American official is expected to hold meetings with mediators and Arab countries in the coming days to discuss the issue of accommodating Palestinians.