West Bank Tensions Escalate as Israel Consolidates Control
Israel is facing mounting international criticism over a series of measures designed to strengthen its control over the West Bank, sparking fears of de facto annexation. The moves, backed by far-right ministers, are occurring as the ceasefire in Gaza remains fragile and a US-led peace initiative takes shape.
UN Warns of Dangerous Expansion of Israeli Authority
UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo told the Security Council that Israel’s actions represent a “gradual de facto annexation” of the West Bank. These steps include expanding Israeli civil authority in Areas A and B, traditionally under Palestinian governance as outlined in the Oslo Accords. The Oslo Accords, signed in the 1990s, aimed to establish a framework for an independent Palestinian state.
The Israeli security cabinet’s decisions are expected to lead to settlement expansion by removing bureaucratic barriers to land purchases and building permits. Israeli forces have continued large-scale operations across the West Bank, frequently involving live fire, raising concerns about the use of lethal force.
Restrictions on Access to Al-Aqsa Mosque During Ramadan
Adding to the tensions, Israel announced it will limit the number of Palestinian worshippers from the West Bank attending Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem to 10,000 during Ramadan. Age restrictions have also been imposed, allowing entry only to men aged 55 and older, women aged 50 and older, and children under 12 accompanied by a relative. This is a significant reduction from the hundreds of thousands who traditionally attend prayers at Islam’s third-holiest site.
The Islamic Waqf, the Jordanian-run body administering the site, has reportedly been prevented from carrying out routine preparations for Ramadan, including installing shade structures and medical clinics. A senior imam has also been barred from entering the compound.
US Peace Initiative and Concerns Over a Rival to the UN
The UN Security Council meeting coincided with preparations for a meeting of US President Donald Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ in Washington, D.C. Initially intended to oversee the Gaza truce and reconstruction, the board’s scope has broadened to include resolving international conflicts, raising concerns it may be intended as a rival to the United Nations. The UN will not be represented at the board’s meeting.
US ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz defended the board, stating We see “doing” rather than simply “talking.”
International Condemnation and Israeli Response
Eighty-five UN member states issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s unilateral decisions in the West Bank, calling them an expansion of Israel’s “unlawful presence.” Britain’s Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the demand to “prevent the destabilization of the West Bank and preserve the viability of a Palestinian state.”
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar countered that “the Jewish presence in our ancient homeland” does not violate international law, asserting Israel’s historical right to the land.
‘Friendly Fire’ Incident in Gaza
In a separate development, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed that an Israeli soldier killed in Gaza died in a “friendly fire” incident, correcting an earlier claim that the soldier was killed in combat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Areas A, B, and C in the West Bank? These areas were established by the Oslo Accords. Area A is under full Palestinian control, Area B is under joint Israeli-Palestinian control, and Area C is under full Israeli control.
What is the significance of the Al-Aqsa Mosque? Al-Aqsa Mosque is Islam’s third-holiest site and a focal point of religious and political tensions in Jerusalem.
What is the purpose of the US ‘Board of Peace’? Initially intended to oversee the Gaza truce, its purpose has expanded to resolving international conflicts, raising concerns about its role and potential impact on the UN.
What is de facto annexation? De facto annexation refers to the act of applying a country’s laws, administration, and military control over a territory without formally annexing it through a legal process.
What is COGAT? COGAT is the Israeli defence ministry agency in charge of civilian matters in the Palestinian territories.
