A group of Republican lawmakers is urging President Donald Trump to recognize the West Bank as Israeli territory, following the president's indication that he is considering such a move. Led by Rep. Claudia Tenney, the lawmakers emphasize the region's significance as the heartland of the U.S. and Israel's shared Judeo-Christian heritage.
In a letter to Trump, the lawmakers express strong support for Israel's right to declare sovereignty over the West Bank, citing its historical and biblical importance. They also voice opposition to the recognition of any Arab state in the region that supports terrorism and does not acknowledge Israel.
The letter commends Trump for lifting sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank, imposed by the Biden administration in response to violence after Hamas attacks. Trump hinted at a forthcoming policy announcement on the West Bank, indicating a potentially more favorable stance on Israeli expansion compared to the Biden administration.
Israel recently deployed tanks into the West Bank for the first time in two decades, targeting militants post-Gaza ceasefire. Palestinians view this as a move to reclaim areas under the Palestinian Authority's control. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that Israeli forces will remain in the West Bank as necessary, with Defense Minister Israel Katz stating troops will be in urban areas for at least a year and preventing the return of displaced Palestinians.
Trump's anticipated announcement on West Bank policy is awaited, with expectations of a shift towards supporting Israeli sovereignty in the region. The complex dynamics between Israelis and Palestinians in the West Bank continue to shape the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.
