Disagreements in the coalition: Gantz opposes continuation of West Bank annexation during pandemic

(Patria) – The main coalition partner of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Benny Gantz, indicated on Monday that he will oppose the continuation of the plan to annex occupied parts of the West Bank where Palestinians wish to establish a state.

At the same time, Netanyahu told lawmakers from his right-wing Likud party that the next steps in the annexation of Palestinian territories, which are up for debate on Wednesday, do not depend on Gantz's support, alluding to the fact that the necessary support will come from ultra-Orthodox and right-wing parties.

Reuters writes that the dispute between Netanyahu and Gantz could delay the cabinet debate on annexation, which was planned to begin as early as July 1.

Gantz reportedly stated that 'everything not related to the coronavirus can wait,' estimating that the health crisis will last another 18 months.

Netanyahu confirmed his intention to extend Israeli sovereignty over Jewish settlements and the Jordan Valley, as outlined in the plan announced in January by US President Donald Trump, thereby supporting Israel's territorial expansion that would control 30% of the West Bank.

Over the past two weeks, opposition to the annexation from the international community, including the UN, European countries, and Arab states, has grown louder, condemning the appropriation of land seized by Israeli forces in the 1967 war.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet called on Israel on Monday to abandon the plan: 'Annexation is illegal. Period.'

Israel's Foreign Ministry accused Bachelet of bias, stating in a statement that it is not surprising that she commented 'before any decision was made.'

Trump's proposal, rejected by Palestinian leaders, also envisions the creation of a Palestinian state under strict conditions.