Trump does not support annexation of the West Bank

In response to the Israeli security cabinet's decisions, the White House emphasized that the administration of US President Donald Trump does not support Israel's annexation of the West Bank and considers the stability of this territory to be key to regional security. This was reported by the Times of Israel.

The statement came after Israel approved a series of measures expanding Jerusalem's administrative influence in areas that Palestinians consider part of their future state.

According to a statement attributed to a White House official, President Trump has clearly declared his opposition to the annexation of the West Bank. However, the statement does not directly address the Israeli government's measures themselves or whether the United States has officially conveyed its concerns to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet.

The White House has issued similarly worded calls for stability in the past in connection with the expansion of Israeli settlements. Although Trump indicated after returning to office that he was considering supporting annexation, he later stated that he would not allow Israel to take this step.

Israel has meanwhile taken several measures that supervisory authorities describe as de facto annexation, but has so far avoided taking formal steps. The issue of the West Bank may also be raised at Trump's upcoming meeting with Netanyahu on Wednesday.

(max)