Why it matters:
The Israeli regime has taken a new step toward preventing the establishment of an independent Palestinian state by approving a symbolic plan to annex the West Bank and the Jordan Valley to the occupied territories.
The big picture:
In its session yesterday, Wednesday, the Knesset approved a draft resolution supporting the imposition of sovereignty over the occupied West Bank. Several members of the ruling coalition submitted the resolution before the Knesset's summer recess. Knesset members from the Religious Zionism, Likud, Shas, and the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu parties announced their support for the resolution.
What they are saying:
Palestinian forces and factions condemned the Knesset's vote yesterday, calling for escalating resistance to thwart the occupation's plans.
The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) described this measure in a statement as "null and void, and will not change the identity of the Palestinian land."
For its part, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine considered the Knesset's decision a dangerous escalation and an integral part of the occupation's plans to settle the West Bank, Judaize it, and displace its population.
Palestinian presidential spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh said this step constitutes a "dangerous escalation that undermines the chances for peace" and violates "all international resolutions and international law."
Jordan also strongly rejected any Israeli attempt to impose control over the West Bank, considering the Knesset's vote a violation of international law and an undermining of the two-state solution.
Turkey, for its part, described any Israeli annexation attempt as simply illegitimate and provocative, aimed at undermining peace efforts.
Go deeper:
Israeli Knesset Passes Resolution Rejecting Palestinian Statehood
Zohre Khazaee - Mojtaba Darabi
