Canada’s Trudeau Joins International Opposition to Israel’s Annexation Plans

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday in a statement congratulating Israel's new government that "in these times of uncertainty, our commitment to international law and the rules-based international order is more important than ever," hinting at the government's pledge to annex parts of the West Bank.

Trudeau's remarks, touting Canada and Israel's "long history as close friends," is the latest in statements made by leaders and international groups, warning the new government, sworn in on Sunday, against its annexation proposal.

Netanyahu’s office said Trudeau called him on Monday, adding in a statement they discussed the coronavirus pandemic and “the latest regional developments.”

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– Bibi swears in his colossal coalition and readies for a courtroom showdown

Bibi swears in his colossal coalition and readies for a courtroom showdown Haaretz

Meanwhile, the Fatah Central Committee called on the Palestinian public to "prepare" for the consequences of a future Israeli annexation and pointed to comments from Jordan's King Abdullah II on Friday that if Israel proceeds with the plans it will lead to a "major clash" with his country.

A senior official told Haaretz that despite these remarks, the Palestinian leadership does not intend to respond with decisions or moves that would be "irreversible." This was despite continuous statements from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas that annexation would bring an end to all Palestinian Authority agreements with Israel.

The settlement of Psagot in the West Bank, February 13, 2020 Ammar Awad/ Reuters

The executive committee of the Palestinian Liberation Organization will convene on Tuesday, also to discuss its response to the proposed annexation. The meeting was postponed from last week because the Palestinian leadership was waiting until after the swearing-in of the new Israeli government, according to Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh.

On Monday, Israel’s new Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi said that the controversial Trump middle east peace plan will be pushed forward "responsibly, in coordination with the United States while safeguarding peace agreements and Israel's strategic interests."