US Secretary of State Warns Israeli Annexation Could Undermine Gaza Peace Efforts

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed concern that Israel's recent legislative steps toward annexing West Bank settlements could threaten President Donald Trump's plan to resolve the Gaza conflict.

"They passed a vote in the Knesset, but the president has made clear that's not something we'd be supportive of right now," Rubio told reporters before departing for Israel. "We think there's potential for [it to be even] threatening to the peace deal."

On Wednesday, the Knesset approved, in a preliminary reading, a bill to apply Israeli sovereignty to all West Bank settlements. This move occurred despite opposition from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and most of his Likud party. The legislation now proceeds to committee for further deliberation and requires three additional votes to become law.

Last month, President Trump stated he would not permit Israel to annex the West Bank, emphasizing that such actions could be counterproductive to peace efforts.

Rubio's visit to Israel aims to support the implementation of President Trump's Comprehensive Plan to End the Conflict in Gaza, which has garnered significant international backing. The State Department noted that during his visit, Rubio will reaffirm America's commitment to Israel's security and engage with partners to build on the momentum toward lasting peace and integration in the Middle East.

The Knesset's vote has elicited reactions from various quarters. Saudi Arabia denounced the move, stating it aims to "legitimize Israeli sovereignty over illegal colonial settlement." The Saudi foreign ministry reiterated its support for the Palestinian people's right to establish an independent state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The Prime Minister's Office is reportedly concerned that annexation efforts could lead to a diplomatic crisis with Washington. Without U.S. support, Israel is less likely to proceed with the move, which could also provoke significant international backlash.