While Israeli security officials are debating whether to move to the second phase of the hostage deal with Hamas, another key issue is nearing its final stages with U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration — applying Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank.
Earlier this month, Trump was asked about the matter and said: "We're discussing that with many of your representatives. You're represented very well. People do like the idea, but we haven't taken a position on it yet. We'll be making an announcement probably on that very specific topic over the next four weeks," he noted.
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IDF soldiers operate in Tul Karem in the northern West Bank
(Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)
West Bank settler leaders have been preparing for the move, making changes on the ground and working with relevant U.S. officials to advance annexation. For weeks, senior members of the pro-settler organization Yesha Council and settler leadership have been in Washington meeting with administration officials to build support around Trump.
Last weekend, the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) conference in Maryland concluded with a decision to back Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank, with Trump himself speaking at the event.
For the first time, a representative from the West Bank was given a platform at the conference. Yesha Council chairman Israel Ganz spoke about the importance of sovereignty, while settler leaders have been working with key Trump advisors to ensure a clear and decisive statement from the White House.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has already made changes in Israel’s Civil Administration to prepare for a potential Trump declaration. His main moves include expanding settlement construction, with approvals issued weekly, declaring more state land and increasing enforcement against unauthorized Palestinian construction.
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U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
(Photo: AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Settler leaders recognize that while Israel itself must apply sovereignty, U.S. backing — similar to past moves in Gaza — is crucial. They have been securing statements of support from senior Israeli officials.
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana toured the West Bank last week with Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan and said, "For the first time, we're hearing out-of-the-box ideas from the White House, from President Trump."
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“He's the best friend Israel has had in the White House and we look forward to his visit, hoping he brings major news. We’re talking about peace through strength. Settlement isn't an obstacle to peace — it's the only way for Israel to achieve it," according to Ohana.
"Jewish settlement in Samaria, Judea, Binyamin and Gush Etzion isn't just about historical justice — it’s Israel’s security apparatus," Dagan added.
Meanwhile, the Yesha Council has drafted a letter signed by most ruling party Likud ministers, which was sent to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu three weeks ago, expressing support for Israeli sovereignty.
IDF tanks in Jenin
Alongside the political push, the IDF has intensified operations in the West Bank, particularly in the northern areas. The army has expanded the use of checkpoints, established positions in Palestinian cities and is preparing for what Defense Minister Israel Katz described as a "prolonged presence in refugee camps."
The military has now entered the next phase of its major counter-terror operation in the West Bank, leading thousands of Palestinians to flee refugee camps. IDF Tanks entered parts of Jenin on Sunday, marking the first deployment of such forces in the area in over 20 years, though they are expected to focus primarily on defensive tasks.