Hardline Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to annex the West Bank in response to a potential ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) declaring Israeli settlements as illegal. Smotrich emphasized the importance of maintaining Israeli presence in the region, stating that the people of Israel will not be displaced from their land. The ICJ is set to deliver a non-binding decision on the legal implications of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. The far-right minister's call for annexation comes amidst heightened tensions, with various international bodies scrutinizing Israel's actions in the region. The United Nations General Assembly had requested the ICJ to provide an advisory opinion on the legality of Israel's settlements. In the event of a ruling against the Israeli settlement enterprise, Smotrich urged Netanyahu to make a historic decision by applying sovereignty to the territories. This move, if implemented, would counter efforts towards establishing a Palestinian state and involve significant infrastructural development within the territories, a step that contravenes international law. Israel's occupation of the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem since 1967 has been a subject of ongoing debate and legal challenges. International law prohibits the transfer of a country's citizens into occupied territories, a principle affirmed by Israel's Supreme Court in 2005. Smotrich's advocacy for land annexation aligns with previous calls for expansive construction projects in the West Bank, defying established legal frameworks. The relentless pursuit of settlement expansion by Israel's government, particularly in disputed areas, has raised concerns among regional stakeholders. Movements like Hamas and Fatah have voiced opposition, warning of heightened tensions and potential repercussions. Despite international criticisms and legal constraints, Israel's leadership, including the Likud party, remains steadfast in advancing settlement activities across various regions, emphasizing territorial development in line with historical narratives. In response to escalating tensions, regional dynamics have become increasingly complex, with conflicting perspectives on land rights and sovereignty. The push for annexation amidst legal challenges highlights the intricate geopolitical landscape in the Middle East, underscoring the need for diplomatic engagement and multilateral dialogue to address longstanding disputes. As political decisions intersect with legal frameworks and historical contexts, the implications of potential annexation scenarios extend beyond regional boundaries, shaping the trajectory of peace negotiations and international relations in the region.