Israeli Bill Sparks Tensions Over West Bank Annexation

A controversial bill to apply Israeli law to the occupied West Bank, effectively annexing the land, received preliminary approval from Israel's parliament. The move, which has drawn international criticism, coincides with growing calls from some Israeli lawmakers to annex parts of the territory. Palestinian groups strongly oppose the annexation plans.

In a contentious move, Israel's parliament granted preliminary approval to a bill applying Israeli law to the occupied West Bank, effectively advancing plans for annexation. This legislative push, not supported by Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party, occurred amidst a diplomatic visit from U.S. Vice President JD Vance.

The bill has stirred international debate, highlighting divisions within Israel's ruling factions. Several coalition members from the National Security and Finance Ministries supported the legislation, which proposes annexing disputed territories captured in 1967, despite opposition from Netanyahu and rejection of recent annexation moves following U.S. objections.

Palestinian authorities, including Hamas, have condemned the initiative, labeling the occupation as illegal and illegitimate. With the backdrop of historical accords like the Abraham Accords, regional tensions continue to underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Israel's territorial claims.

(With inputs from agencies.)