IDF warns of imminent escalation in Judea and Samaria, Ben Gvir and Smotrich propose: Apply sovereignty
The head of COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories), Maj.-Gen. Ghassan Alian warned government ministers of an impending escalation in the West Bank, according to a report on Monday by KAN News.
In a meeting with a small group of ministers convened last Thursday, Maj.-Gen. Alian outlined the variables that could trigger escalation: the severe economic situation in the West Bank, the collapse of the Palestinian Authority’s mechanisms, and the rise in incitement.
Ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir, who participated in the meeting, again proposed applying Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank.
About two weeks ago, KAN News reported that cabinet ministers had discussed applying sovereignty in the West Bank as a response to the wave of international recognition of a Palestinian state expected later this month.
On Saturday, Hadashot HaShabbat reported that the president of the United Arab Emirates met in Riyadh with the Saudi crown prince, and the two agreed that if Israel annexes territory in the West Bank, the Emiratis would withdraw from the Abraham Accords.
For the Saudis, such a decision could close the door on the possibility of normalization with Israel.
In recent days, the UAE has threatened that annexation of West Bank territory would constitute a “red line” in its relations with Israel, and it now appears that the Emiratis have coordinated their stance on this matter with Saudi Arabia.
Yaara Shapira is a news correspondent for KAN 11.
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