Israeli settlers and right-wing extremist Zionist groups in Israel are thrilled by the appointment of top officials in Donald Trump’s new administration. They see this as a dream team that will provide a unique opportunity to expand Israel’s control over occupied territories and put an end to any possibility of a Palestinian state.
On the other hand, Palestinian groups and left-wing NGOs in Israel are alarmed by Trump’s choice of outspoken supporters of far-right Israeli activists. They believe that Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has been emboldened by Trump’s victory and are concerned about the future of Israel.
Since the US election, there has been a surge in demolitions of Palestinian homes in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Last week, Palestinian residents of al-Bustan in East Jerusalem were devastated by the destruction of nine houses by municipal authorities. This has left many families homeless and vulnerable.
Fakhri Abu Diab, a long-time activist in al-Bustan, expressed his frustration at the ongoing demolitions and the impact on innocent families. The Jerusalem municipality claims that the buildings were constructed on land designated as an open public area, but critics argue that the real aim is to connect Israeli settler communities in Palestinian neighborhoods.
The appointment of officials like Marco Rubio, Elise Stefanik, and Mike Huckabee has raised concerns among even the most hardline supporters of Israel. Rubio’s comments about Gaza and Hamas, Stefanik’s criticism of the UN, and Huckabee’s rejection of a two-state solution have sparked controversy and debate.
Pro-settler parties in Israel hold significant positions in the coalition government, advocating for the expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The surge in settlement construction has intensified during the conflict with Hamas, leading to civilian casualties on both sides.
Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich has been a vocal proponent of settlement expansion, projecting a vision of sovereignty in Judea and Samaria by 2025. This rhetoric aligns with the biblical terms used by right-wing Israelis and their supporters in the US, signaling a desire to annex the occupied territories.
The City of David Foundation, supported by Mike Huckabee and Israeli settler groups, has faced criticism for its projects in Palestinian neighborhoods. Accusations of displacing Palestinian families and using controversial laws to acquire property have raised ethical concerns about the foundation’s activities.
Overall, the Trump administration’s approach to Israel and the Palestinian territories has sparked intense debate and raised questions about the future of the region. The influence of evangelical Christians, far-right supporters, and pro-settlement activists in shaping US policy towards Israel has significant implications for the peace process and stability in the region.
