Portugal has condemned recent statements made by Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Smotrich called for taking the West Bank and Gaza away from Palestinians permanently. His comments have drawn criticism for violating international law and ignoring Palestinian rights.
Read More About: Portugal Ranks 71st For Most Polluting Country Out Of 250 Countries
Portugal Statement Over Israeli Minister Remarks
Paulo Rangel from Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared the government’s stance on the social media platform X.
He wrote in the statement that Portugal does not agree with what Minister Smotrich said about supporting Israel’s taking over of the West Bank. These comments are against international law and they do not take into account the rights of the Palestinian people.
Smotrich made these remarks at a meeting of the Religious Zionist Party. He referred to Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election as a chance to annex Palestinian territories.
He said:
We were one step away from implementing sovereignty over the settlements in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank), and now the time has come to do so
These comments are part of Israel’s broader political strategy. The ultra-nationalist coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long supported settlement expansion. Also a deputy minister in the Ministry of Defence Smotrich oversees civil affairs in the occupied West Bank.
Israel Moves Toward Annexation
The Israeli army transferred key legal powers earlier this year in the West Bank to settler officials led by Smotrich. Experts say this is a step toward annexation. These powers allow Israel to control Palestinian territories directly.
Smotrich has taken further steps to advance annexation. He instructed the settlement administration to start preparing infrastructure to expand Israeli control. Israel has declared over 2,300 hectares of West Bank land as state land this year alone. Such actions often result in Palestinians being displaced from their homes.
West Bank-Gaza Conflict And Impact On Palestinians
The West Bank and Gaza have been contested territories for decades. Israel captured these areas in the Six Day War in 1967. They have occupied them since. Palestinians have limited rights and face restrictions in their daily lives under Israeli control.
The international community views these territories as Palestinian land. United Nations resolutions and international law support this position. However, Israel continues to expand settlements in the West Bank and claim the land for itself.
Palestinians in the West Bank face increasing challenges. Land confiscation, home demolitions, and restricted movement are common. Israel often declares areas as military zones or nature reserves and forcing Palestinians to leave.
Smotrich’s annexation plan will worsen these conditions. If his plan get implemented it will solidify Israeli control and further limit Palestinian rights. Many fear this will end any hope for peace in the region.
Global Reaction And Israel’s Settlement Policies
Portugal’s criticism is part of a broader global concern about Israel’s policies. Many countries oppose the expansion of settlements which they view as illegal. The European Union and United Nations have urged Israel to stop these actions.
They argue that settlement expansion threatens the possibility of a two state solution. Human rights organizations have also condemned Smotrich’s statements.
They warn that annexation will lead to greater instability. It will also increase suffering for Palestinians and destroy chances for peace.
The Israeli government under Netanyahu has made settlement expansion a priority. The Israeli Colonisation Council with support from the military drives this process. Every year more Palestinian land is taken for settlements.
This year’s record land appropriation shows the government’s aggressive approach. Plans for new settlements continue to reduce Palestinian territory.
The international community must act to address the situation. Diplomatic pressure on Israel is necessary to ensure it follows international law. Support for Palestinians including aid and legal assistance is also crucial.
The Israeli and Palestine conflict has gone on for decades without resolution. Smotrich’s statements and the policies of Netanyahu’s government make peace even harder to achieve. The situation will likely become worse without intervention
Portugal’s condemnation of Smotrich’s remarks is an important stand for justice. It is against international law and human rights to take over Palestinian land.
The future of the West Bank and Gaza is uncertain. However, international pressure and solidarity with Palestinians can make a difference. Lasting peace in the region can only come through fair negotiations and respect for all people.
