Israel has warned that it may respond by annexing parts of the West Bank if key European countries unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state, Israeli and foreign sources reported Monday, cited by the Times of Israel.
Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer has informed French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and his British counterpart David Lamy that Israel may annex Area C of the West Bank and legalize unauthorized outposts if it moves to recognize Palestine, Haaretz reported, citing a diplomatic source.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has conveyed similar messages to his counterparts in Britain, France and other countries. "Unilateral actions against Israel will be met with unilateral actions from Israel," Saar said, as quoted by Israel Hayom.
The warnings come ahead of an international meeting in New York hosted by France and Saudi Arabia next month, where President Emmanuel Macron will push for coordinated European recognition of Palestinian statehood.
While the United States does not intend to participate, some countries such as Spain and Malta support such a move. Germany, Hungary and the Czech Republic remain reserved. Recognition by France would be a significant change in Paris' policy and is likely to provoke a sharp reaction from Israel, which perceives such a move as "a reward for terrorism," especially in light of the Hamas attack on October 7.
Meanwhile, growing European discontent with Israel's actions in Gaza continues. On Monday, Sweden announced that it had summoned the Israeli ambassador to protest the blockade of humanitarian aid.
"We do not support what the Israeli government is doing. Absolutely not", said Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
After international pressure, Israel partially lifted the blockade in early May, allowing hundreds of food trucks to enter Gaza. However, the United Nations and aid groups say renewed hostilities are hindering the distribution of aid.
Kristersson also said that the EU should reconsider its association agreement with Israel. 17 of the 27 member states, including France, already support the idea, while Germany abstains.