The U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, made headlines recently following his meeting with the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. This rendezvous centered around Israel’s intention to annex portions of the West Bank. In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Pompeo’s visit symbolized the strong alliance between the USA and Israel, as he was exempted from Israel’s obligatory two-week quarantine for new arrivals.
The Discussion Topics
The primary topic of their discussion was Israel’s plans concerning the annexation of specific regions within the West Bank. Furthermore, the allies shared their mutual concerns about geopolitical issues such as the Iran problem, combating the coronavirus, the incoming Israeli government, and potential threats that could arise from a blossoming Israel-China relationship.
Israel-China Ties
Recently, there have been reports suggesting that the U.S. has been lobbying Israel to re-evaluate a proposal from a Hong Kong company to construct a large desalination facility.
Annexation Plans And Their Potential Impact On The US Presidential Election
Israeli hard-liners are reportedly eager to redraw the Mideast map unilaterally before the upcoming U.S. Presidential election in November. It is speculated that a move towards annexation may boost Donald Trump’s pro-Israel base, especially among influential pro-Israel evangelical Christian voters who believe that the land was promised by God to the Jews.
Israel-Palestine Conflict: An Overview
The conflict can be traced back to 1917, but it was during the Mideast War of 1967 (also known as the Six-Day War) that Israel captured the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. Since then, Israel has established settlements in these territories, now home to roughly 700,000 Israelis.
Middle East Peace Plan
Revealed by Trump in January 2020, the Middle East Peace Plan proposes a limited statehood for Palestinians based on numerous stringent criteria. This plan has been rejected by Palestinians, who seek full independence.
Objections and Criticisms
The annexation has garnered criticism from various quarters as it would undermine already dwindling Palestinian hopes for an independent state. The Arab League describes the annexation as a war crime, while the European Union (EU) has warned of severe ramifications should Israel proceed with the annexation.
India’s Position
Having opposed the United Nations’ partition plan in 1947, India’s stance reflects its complicated historical experiences. Despite establishing formal relations with Israel in 1950, India was also the first non-Arab nation to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) as the sole representative of Palestinians. It also supported the UN Human Rights Council’s resolution to probe Israel’s human rights violations in Gaza in 2014.
