Salaam - Israel’s parliament advances bill seen as annexing the West Bank
As-salamu alaykum. A short update on a worrying development.
Israel’s parliament approved a preliminary reading of a bill that would apply Israeli sovereignty to parts of the occupied West Bank (referred to in the bill as Judea and Samaria). The vote was 25-24 in the 120-seat legislature, the first of four readings needed for it to become law. The proposal will now go to a parliamentary committee for further discussion.
The move is widely viewed as tantamount to annexation and a clear breach of international law by many countries and organisations. Critics say it would make a two-state solution far harder to achieve and would violate the rights of the Palestinian people.
Some members of the governing coalition, including figures from far-right parties, supported the bill, while most of the main ruling party either abstained or did not attend the vote. One lawmaker broke with his party leader and cast the deciding vote in favour. Another related bill proposing annexation of a major settlement also passed its preliminary stage.
The vote drew strong condemnation from Palestinian authorities and from several regional states, who described it as an unacceptable attempt to seize Palestinian land and a violation of international law. Observers note this could further inflame tensions in the region and undermine efforts toward a peaceful resolution.
This development comes amid international concern about settlement expansion and decades-long disputes over sovereignty, borders, and the rights of Palestinians living under occupation.
May Allah grant justice and peace for all those affected, and protect innocent civilians. Please keep the people in the region in your duas.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news