Jerusalem: Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar has issued a stern warning regarding the potential annexation of West Bank illegal colonies and the Jordan Valley. This announcement comes as a response to the possibility of international recognition of the State of Palestine, including support from nations such as Britain and France.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Sa'ar's declaration was reported by the Hebrew newspaper Israel Hayom, which highlighted the minister's statement that "any unilateral steps against Israel will be met with unilateral steps from it." This underscores Tel Aviv's stance on annexing Palestinian territories should there be any global acknowledgment of a Palestinian state.
The report further elaborates on the diplomatic efforts spearheaded by French President Emmanuel Macron, who is working towards hosting an international conference in New York by mid-June. The conference, supported by Saudi Arabia, aims to secure international recognition for a Palestinian state. Diplomatic sources revealed to Israel Hayom that Macron is targeting June 18 as the date for official declarations from several countries recognizing Palestine, a move that has drawn criticism from the Israeli government, accusing Macron of "deception."
Currently, 149 out of 193 UN member states recognize Palestine. The upcoming New York conference presents an opportunity for Palestinians to garner additional international support for recognition of their statehood.
The broader political landscape has also been shaped by a recent ruling from the International Court of Justice on July 20, 2024. The court declared that Israel's continued occupation in Palestinian territories is illegal, affirming the Palestinians' right to self-determination and calling for the evacuation of Israeli settlements in these occupied regions.