Story perspectives

U.S. Rejects Israeli West Bank Expansion Amid Global Outcry

2/12/2026

Center

White House Opposes Annexation

The White House says it does not endorse Israel's West Bank expansion and notes U.S. President Donald Trump’s opposition to annexation.
The Israeli cabinet approved measures increasing authority in the West Bank, including land registration.
The United Kingdom condemned the move, warning it could harm peace prospects.
The Palestinian Authority called for UN and U.S. intervention as Muslim-majority countries' foreign ministers issued a joint declaration labeling the measures illegal.

Right

Senate Democrats Urge Action

Eight Senate Democrats urged U.S. President Donald Trump to strengthen opposition to Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank, saying such actions could lead to irreversible annexation and undermine the two-state framework.
They called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reverse these decisions.
Trump, maintaining his stance against annexation, acknowledged he and Netanyahu do not fully agree on the West Bank but said a resolution could still be reached.

History

Historical Context

The Oslo Accords, signed in 1993, marked a pivotal moment in Israeli-Palestinian relations, establishing the Palestinian Authority and initiating a five-year interim self-governance period. However, unresolved issues, including Israeli settlements and the status of Jerusalem, have perpetuated tensions. As of 2020, over $40 billion in international aid has been provided to support the Palestinian Authority, highlighting ongoing global involvement in the conflict.

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White House Opposes Annexation

The White House says it does not endorse Israel's West Bank expansion and notes U.S. President Donald Trump’s opposition to annexation.
The Israeli cabinet approved measures increasing authority in the West Bank, including land registration.
The United Kingdom condemned the move, warning it could harm peace prospects.
The Palestinian Authority called for UN and U.S. intervention as Muslim-majority countries' foreign ministers issued a joint declaration labeling the measures illegal.

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