News|Israel-Palestine conflictIsrael’s parliament advances bill to annex occupied West BankThe bill passed 25-24, despite opposition from PM Netanyahu, in the first of four votes it will face to become law.

On Tue, Oct 21, 2025, the Israeli Knesset voted to give preliminary approval to a bill proposing the extension of Israeli sovereignty over the occupied West Bank. The vote passed with a narrow margin of 25-24. This move, seen as a potential annexation, is viewed internationally as a violation of law.

The bill was supported by certain members of Netanyahu’s coalition, including those from the Jewish Power party and the Religious Zionism faction. Despite the opposition from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and most of his Likud party abstaining or not attending, Likud member Yuli Edelstein cast the decisive vote in favor.

The proposed legislation will proceed to the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee for further examination. Additionally, another bill regarding the annexation of the Maale Adumim settlement was also passed.

In response to the vote, significant international opposition was expressed. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry, Hamas, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan condemned the actions as a contravention of international law and a threat to the two-state solution.

The international community, including the United Nations, has consistently regarded Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank as illegal under international law. The recent votes have been characterized by some as politically motivated gestures rather than substantive policy changes.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.