ALWAGHT- US Secretary of State calls Israel’s preliminary step to extend its law to occupied territory “counterproductive” and a threat to peace.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Israel against annexing the West Bank, describing the Knesset’s preliminary vote to extend sovereignty and the surge in settler violence as a “threat to peace.” He emphasized that such moves could undermine the fragile Gaza ceasefire and the broader peace process, calling them “counterproductive” at this time.
The bill, which would apply Israeli law to parts of the West Bank, still requires several more approvals to become law. Its preliminary passage has caused political tension for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had urged lawmakers to delay the vote during US Vice President JD Vance’s visit. The move comes amid a broader effort by Israel’s far-right government to expand settlements and consolidate control over the West Bank, especially after the October 2023 Gaza conflict.
Settler violence has escalated sharply alongside annexation efforts. The UN reports that over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed and thousands displaced in the West Bank since October 2023, with settler attacks rising 13% in the first half of 2025 compared to last year. Rubio expressed concern over actions that could destabilize ongoing peace efforts, highlighting specific recent incidents, including an attack on a Palestinian woman by a masked settler.
Meanwhile, Israel continues to limit international media access to Gaza. The Supreme Court held a hearing on whether to allow reporters entry, giving the government 30 days to submit a new position. The situation reflects ongoing tensions over both territorial expansion in the West Bank and restrictions on reporting from Gaza amid the conflict.
