International Outcry Against Israeli Legislation
Jakarta, Indonesia – A broad coalition of nations, led by Indonesia, has issued a strong condemnation of an Israeli parliamentary bill that seeks to assert sovereignty over the occupied West Bank and support illegal settlements. The joint statement, published by Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, October 24, 2025, described the Israeli legislation as a 'blatant violation of international law' and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334.
The condemnation follows the Israeli Knesset's preliminary approval on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, of a bill titled 'Application of Israeli Sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, 2025'. This bill, initiated by MK Avi Maoz, passed by a narrow margin of 25-24. Another related bill proposing the annexation of the Ma'ale Adumim settlement also received preliminary approval.
Violation of International Law and ICJ Opinion
The joint statement underscored that Israel holds 'no legitimate sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territories'. It explicitly referenced the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) advisory opinion, issued on October 22, 2025, which reaffirmed that Israel's occupation of Palestinian land is illegal under international law and that the construction and annexation of settlements in the West Bank are unlawful.
The coalition highlighted that the Israeli legislation aims to alter the demographic composition, character, or status of Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, which is directly contrary to UN Security Council Resolution 2334. The ICJ's opinion also reiterated several critical obligations for Israel:
- To ensure Palestinian civilians, including those in Gaza, have access to essential needs and humanitarian aid facilitated by the United Nations and the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
- The prohibition of using starvation as a method of warfare.
- The prohibition of forced displacement, deportation, and actions that create inhumane living conditions for civilians.
Furthermore, the statement reaffirmed the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state, declaring Israel's claim over East Jerusalem 'null and void'.
Broad International Alliance and Calls for Action
The joint condemnation was signed by 15 countries, in addition to the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). These nations include Jordan, Pakistan, Türkiye, Djibouti, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Gambia, Palestine, Qatar, Kuwait, Libya, Malaysia, Egypt, and Nigeria. The signatories urged the international community to uphold its legal and moral responsibilities in halting Israel's unilateral and unlawful actions, warning that such measures could further escalate tensions in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The Knesset's vote occurred despite reported opposition from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and during a visit by US Vice President JD Vance. US President Donald Trump had previously stated he would not allow Israel to annex the occupied West Bank. Following the preliminary approval, Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly ordered the suspension of the annexation bill 'until further notice'.
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