Declaring that “it’s time to stop now,” Donald Trump has publicly halted the push by some Israeli politicians to annex the West Bank. In a firm statement from the Oval Office, the US President made it clear that he would not support or allow such a move, which would all but end the prospect of a Palestinian state. The declaration sends a powerful signal to the Israeli government and its far-right factions.
The statement was made just as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was arriving in New York for a UN address, ensuring it would be a major topic of discussion. Netanyahu is now under pressure to respond to his most important ally’s public opposition, especially since members of his own coalition, like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, have been vocal advocates for annexation as a means to prevent Palestinian statehood.
This American position shift follows a period of intense diplomatic maneuvering. European allies like the UK and France, along with Australia, had been deeply concerned. They feared Trump would use the recognition of Israeli control over West Bank settlements to punish them for their recent recognition of Palestine. Their lobbying, combined with that of Arab nations, appears to have been persuasive.
At the heart of the matter are the Israeli settlements, home to some 700,000 Israelis in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. These settlements, which most of the world deems illegal, have expanded significantly since 1967, creating a complex and fragmented map that challenges the viability of a two-state solution. The controversial E1 plan, in particular, is seen as a strategic move to permanently divide Palestinian territories.
This development is occurring as the US ramps up efforts to resolve the nearly two-year Gaza war. A 21-point peace plan is being reviewed by key regional actors, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt. Trump suggested that progress was being made, telling reporters that after talks with both sides, he was hopeful for a deal that would secure the release of hostages and bring an end to a conflict that has killed over 65,000 Palestinians.