UPDATE: US Vice President JD Vance has issued a strong warning against Israeli plans to annex the West Bank, declaring it will not happen under President Donald Trump. His remarks come after Israeli lawmakers approved a preliminary bill to extend Israeli law into the occupied region, a move Vance labeled a “stupid political stunt.”
The controversial bill, which was approved by Israeli MPs on October 22, 2025, has raised alarms amid ongoing tensions following a deadly conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Vance stated, “The West Bank is not going to be annexed by Israel. The policy of President Trump is that the West Bank will not be annexed. This will always be our policy.”
In a press briefing, Vance expressed his insult towards the Israeli initiative, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a fragile truce in the region. His comments highlight the US administration’s commitment to stabilizing the area following two years of violence that resulted in the deaths of over 68,000 people in Gaza and 1,200 Israelis during the initial Hamas assault on October 7, 2023.
The Israeli government’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, confirmed that no immediate vote on annexation would take place, aligning with the US’s broader strategy to support Trump’s multi-stage plan for Gaza. This plan aims to pave the way for reconstruction and potential governance reforms in Palestinian territories.
Vance’s statements came during a visit to Israel aimed at reinforcing the fragile ceasefire. Following the recent escalation of violence, the US has sent high-ranking officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to ensure the ceasefire holds. Rubio’s ongoing visit is focused on facilitating the implementation of Trump’s 20-point plan which seeks to stabilize the region while addressing humanitarian concerns.
As tensions remain high, Israeli authorities have faced criticism for their media blackout in Gaza. The Israeli Supreme Court is set to review an appeal that could allow international media access to the region, with a decision expected within 30 days.
Developing events suggest the international community’s scrutiny of Israeli actions will intensify, especially as the US administration drives its diplomatic efforts amidst ongoing conflicts. Both sides have reiterated their commitments to the ceasefire, but continued violations threaten to unravel the fragile peace established thus far.
As the situation evolves, observers are urged to monitor potential shifts in policy from both Israeli officials and the US government, particularly regarding the future of the West Bank and the broader implications for peace in the Middle East.
