In a post on his social media account, Borrell strongly criticized Smotrich's declaration that 2025 would mark the "year of annexation" of the occupied territory.

Borrell stated that he “unequivocally condemns” the Israeli minister’s comments, stressing that such remarks “undermine international law, violate the rights of the Palestinians, and threaten the viability of a two-state solution.” The EU’s top diplomat reiterated the EU’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the importance of respecting international law and advancing efforts toward a peaceful resolution.

Smotrich made the controversial comments during a speech on Monday while chairing a meeting of the "Religious Zionism" party, where he pledged that Israel would assert sovereignty over the West Bank in 2025.

The EU's condemnation of Smotrich's statements reflects ongoing concerns in the international community about Israel's policies in the West Bank and the potential impact on peace efforts in the region. (ILKHA)