Trump, the West Bank and annexation: Israel in the driver's seat

The Trump administration is enabling a de facto annexation of the occupied West Bank by Israel, even as more visible conflicts occur in Gaza and Syria. In response to European and Saudi-backed efforts to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN, Israel may officially annex the Jordan Valley. US officials have reportedly discussed potential annexation areas with the Israeli government, aligning with the previous "Deal of the Century" plan. This approach effectively puts Israel in the driver's seat, a departure from past US policies that promoted a two-state solution. While these diplomatic maneuvers unfold, Israeli settlement expansion and military actions continue throughout the West Bank.