As the far-right government in the occupying state prepares to officially annex the West Bank and declare “sovereignty” over it, Israeli optimism is on the rise. This comes in light of the inauguration of the new U.S. President, Donald Trump, whose administration appears less restrained in supporting such steps despite widespread international opposition.
Israeli Leadership Meets on Annexation Plans
The Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently met with settler leaders, including the heads of the “Binyamin Regional Council” and “Yesha Council,” as well as opposition leader Benny Gantz, to discuss the implications of the U.S. administration change on the future of what Israel refers to as “Judea and Samaria,” the occupied West Bank.
The meeting focused on the new opportunities available for Israel to advance its plans for annexing the West Bank in light of Donald Trump’s electoral victory. These opportunities, Netanyahu argued, represent a potential turning point in Israel’s long-term strategy.
During the meeting, Gantz reportedly highlighted “key challenges in the West Bank that, in his view, directly impact Israel’s overall security.” He stressed, “The time is ripe to advance decisive steps for Israel’s security by asserting control over the West Bank.”
Plans Ready for Implementation
Gantz also told Netanyahu that detailed, actionable plans had already been prepared in recent years in collaboration with settlement leaders and experts. “Ultimately, it is the government’s responsibility to seize this historic opportunity and move forward,” he stated, warning against letting this “historic chance” slip away.
Israel Hayom also highlighted the upcoming appointment of Mike Huckabee as U.S. Ambassador to Israel, noting his strong support for settlement expansion. The report described his appointment as a significant boost to settler aspirations.
The newspaper further noted that in Trump’s previous term, plans were made to declare sovereignty over parts of the West Bank as part of the “Deal of the Century.” Now, with the composition of his new administration, Israeli officials believe there will be little resistance to full annexation.
Partial Sovereignty Already in Motion
The article also cited senior government sources confirming that active steps are being taken to declare partial sovereignty over settlement blocs in the West Bank. These moves align with Israel’s broader vision of deepening its control over Palestinian territories under the guise of “security concerns.”
