• Israel considers annexation of West Bank in response to international recognition of Palestine.
• Netanyahu's cabinet to discuss the extension of Israeli sovereignty over occupied regions.
• Protests and condemnation expected from Palestinians and various international entities.
• U.S. response to the potential annexation remains uncertain as international pressure mounts.
• Reports indicate that the Israeli government views the move as a strategic response.

Israel is contemplating the annexation of parts of the occupied West Bank as a potential response to several nations, including France and Britain, recognising a Palestinian state. This consideration has been corroborated by three Israeli officials and will be a topic of discussion at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet meeting scheduled for Sunday, which will also address the ongoing Gaza war, according to Reuters, Channel News Asia, and Dawn.

The proposal entails extending Israeli sovereignty over areas captured during the 1967 Middle East war, and its implementation remains uncertain about specific locations and timing. Observers expect widespread condemnation from Palestinians and various countries should such a move advance, as the Palestinians view the West Bank as essential for their future statehood, according to Middle East Eye and Reuters.

In context, the United Nations' highest court declared in 2024 that Israel's occupation and settlement activities in Palestinian territories, including the West Bank, are illegal and should be reversed. Nevertheless, the Israeli government disputes this interpretation, arguing that the territories are on disputed lands. The international community largely views these areas as occupied, a sentiment shared by many human rights organizations, as reported by Dawn and Middle East Eye.

As discussions continue, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has reportedly met with U.S. officials, suggesting possible alignment on future plans for the West Bank. Saar hinted at "applying sovereignty" in the coming months, while acknowledging that the annexation would be framed within the broader context of recognition of a Palestinian state, according to multiple reports, including Middle East Eye and Channel News Asia.

Should Israel persist in this direction, it could exacerbate tensions not only with the Palestinians but also with key international allies. The plans for annexation coincide with increasing calls for Palestinian recognition at the United Nations, echoing sentiments expressed by several countries ahead of an upcoming UN General Assembly summit. The dynamic is complex and underscores the divergent views on sovereignty and territorial rights between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, according to Reuters, Dawn, and Middle East Eye.