WASHINGTON, 24 October (H.S.): United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday offered reassurances that Israel would not take action in the West Bank, even as Israeli lawmakers advanced contentious bills that could pave the way for annexation of the occupied Palestinian territory.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump sought to quell concerns over the recent legislative moves in the Israeli parliament. Don’t worry about the West Bank, Israel’s not going to do anything with the West Bank, the president stated unequivocally when asked if he was concerned by the votes.

The comment provides a glimpse into the administration’s perspective on a deeply sensitive issue, signaling confidence that its key Middle Eastern ally will refrain from formally annexing the territory, a move that would be widely condemned internationally and would upend decades of U.S. policy.

—————

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar