US Threatens Israel Over West Bank Annexation – What Comes Next?

Washington: News in the Arab media draw attention to the increasing tension between the USA and Israel following Tel Aviv’s moves in Palestinian territory. The focus has been on US disapproval after Israel’s Knesset gave preliminary approval to a bill aimed at expanding its sovereignty over the West Bank.

The law was introduced during the visit of US Vice President JD Vance and opposition MPs Avigdor Lieberman and Avi Maoz.

Regional media outlets described the bill as a provocative political maneuver. Analysts suggested that this move could undermine US plans to broker a peace agreement in Gaza.

It was reported that US officials stated that the annexation attempt was personally offensive and emphasized that the West Bank would not be occupied.

Gulf-based media networks highlighted Trump’s warning that Israel could lose American support if it pursues annexation. The warnings were presented as a stark red line underscoring the United States’ commitment to its Arab partners.

Sky News Arabia described the US objection as a direct rebuke to Netanyahu, calling it a political slap in the face and a new test for the Israeli prime minister.

Al Jazeera stated that White House officials fear that Netanyahu’s actions could endanger the Gaza peace process and that there could be possible consequences for Israel if US directives are ignored.

Many regional publications highlighted growing disillusionment with Netanyahu in Washington. Reports suggested Trump had never been more upset with the Israeli leader, underscoring a widening rift between the two.

While Trump pursued peace agreements to stabilize the Middle East, Netanyahu relied on pressure and assertive security measures to ensure Israel’s security.

Saudi newspaper Sharq al-Awsat stated that the US stance had caused a serious shock in Israel, while Russia’s RT Arabic newspaper described Israel as “out of control”, citing US growing anger at Israel’s military counter-offensives in Gaza and parliamentary votes supporting the annexation of the West Bank.

These actions were seen as undermining sensitive agreements brokered by the United States.

Trump reportedly warned Netanyahu that Israel cannot oppose the world alone, and emphasized that the country’s size and influence are limited compared to global powers.

The news emphasized that the United States now aims to use stronger influence on Israel to maintain diplomatic relations with Arab countries.

Arab media have collectively portrayed Israel as increasingly isolated by diplomatic pressures, signaling a potential shift in US-Israel relations as Washington asserts greater control over its closest ally in the region.