Ramallah: The Palestinian Presidency has forcefully criticized recent decisions by the Israeli cabinet that are seen as efforts to further annex the occupied West Bank. These measures are viewed as part of an ongoing comprehensive conflict led by the Israeli government against Palestinians, marking an unprecedented escalation that threatens Palestinian presence along with national and historical rights within the Palestinian territory, particularly in the occupied West Bank.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the Presidency has cautioned about the serious consequences of these decisions, which they describe as the practical implementation of annexation and displacement strategies. It was noted that these actions violate all agreements previously signed between the Palestine Liberation Organization and Israel, contravene international law, and disregard resolutions of international legitimacy. The Presidency emphasized that these moves constitute a glaring breach of the Oslo Accords and the Hebron Agreement.
The Presidency contends that the decisions signal a direct attempt by Israel to legitimize settlement expansion, land confiscation, and the demolition of Palestinian properties, even in regions under Palestinian sovereignty.
Additionally, the Presidency expressed concern over potential threats to Islamic and Christian holy sites, stating that any violation of the Ibrahimi Mosque and transfer of control over it is unacceptable. The Presidency holds the occupying power entirely accountable for ongoing assaults on holy sites, which are perceived as efforts to incite tensions, especially with the imminent arrival of the holy month of Ramadan.
The Presidency reiterated that these decisions are illegitimate and illegal, rendering them null and void with no legal standing. It stressed that international laws do not support settlement activity, annexation efforts, or the displacement of Palestinians under any circumstances.
The Presidency has appealed to the international community, particularly the Security Council and the U.S. administration, to immediately intervene and take decisive steps to halt these perilous Israeli decisions, which jeopardize international efforts to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation in the area.
In conclusion, the Presidency affirmed the unwavering resolve of the Palestinian people and their legitimate leadership, represented by the Palestine Liberation Organization, to continue defending their land and rights. They vowed that these plans will not succeed, and that the State of Palestine will eventually be realized as a free, independent, and fully sovereign state in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, the eternal capital of the State of Palestine.
