Trump tells Arab leaders he won't let Israel annex the West Bank
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 12:50 pm
Trump Signals Opposition to West Bank Annexation, Hints at Gaza Breakthrough
President Donald Trump has reportedly assured Arab leaders that he will not permit Israel to annex the West Bank, according to sources. This commitment was made during a meeting with Arab leaders in New York, where Trump presented his 21-point peace plan for the Middle East. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, included leaders from Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey.
Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, described the meeting as productive, suggesting a potential breakthrough in efforts to end the war in the Gaza Strip. Witkoff expressed optimism about announcing progress in the coming days, though details of any specific advances remain unclear. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has been a central focus of the General Assembly this week.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed the desire for an immediate end to the conflict in Gaza during a separate meeting with Gulf foreign ministers. He emphasized the importance of addressing the situation, highlighting it as a key concern for all present.
Trump's assurances against West Bank annexation come amid calls for such a move from right-wing members of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. This follows a series of countries formally recognizing Palestine as a state. Palestinians view the West Bank as a crucial territory for a future internationally recognized Palestinian state. Annexation would further jeopardize this prospect. Netanyahu, who is scheduled to address the General Assembly and meet with Trump next week, has stated that there will never be a Palestinian state under his leadership.
Trump has previously expressed concerns that the recognition of Palestine risks rewarding Hamas. Israel has also proceeded with a settlement plan that would effectively divide the West Bank. The UAE has indicated that West Bank annexation would be a "red line," potentially hindering future recognition of Israel and the completion of the Abraham Accords.
BNN's Perspective: The situation in the Middle East remains incredibly complex. While any indication of a commitment to de-escalation and a two-state solution is welcome, the history of failed peace talks and the entrenched positions of both sides warrant cautious optimism. The potential for a breakthrough in Gaza is encouraging, but concrete steps towards a lasting resolution are essential.
Keywords: Donald Trump, Israel, West Bank, Annexation, Gaza, Peace Plan, Arab Leaders, United Nations, Palestine, Benjamin Netanyahu, Marco Rubio, Abraham Accords, Middle East Conflict, Two-State Solution.