In a decisive statement, former US President Donald Trump has made it clear that he will not permit Israel to annex the West Bank. “I will not allow Israel to annex the West Bank. Nope. I will not allow it. It’s not gonna happen… There’s been enough. It’s time to stop now. OK?” Trump’s remarks follow discussions with Arab leaders at a UN meeting. Turkish President Erdogan indicated a positive outcome from his meeting with Trump. Arab and Muslim leaders had met with Trump during the UN General Assembly, urging him to work towards ending the conflict in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to prevent the creation of a Palestinian state, and some Israeli officials have threatened annexations in response to global recognition of Palestine. Trump’s stance is expected to put pressure on Netanyahu. Despite this, the US continues its military and diplomatic aid to Israel. Trump met with a group of Arab and Muslim leaders in New York, but no official statement was released. The next step, according to Trump, will be a meeting with Israeli officials.
