President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House Feb. 5, 2025
President Donald Trump made history this week by meeting with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by suggesting the first actually feasible “peace plan” for Gaza. The next question is what to do with the equally intractable disputed territories of Judea and Samaria (aka the “West Bank”). A proposal by guest contributor Avi Abelow.
Applying Israel’s Sovereignty in Judea and Samaria: A Strategic Imperative for US Foreign Policy and Trump’s ‘Peace Through Strength’ Doctrine
by Avi Abelow
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is the first foreign leader to be invited to meet with President Donald J.Trump. This historic meeting underscores the unbreakable alliance Israel has with the United States, one built on shared values and strategic interests. The visit provides a critical opportunity for Netanyahu to elucidate Israel’s needs and reiterate how they directly align with US foreign policy interests.
While talks will undoubtedly focus on Iran and Gaza, it is imperative that Netanyahu bring up a long-overdue requirement: applying full Israeli sovereignty to Judea and Samaria, Israel’s biblical heartland. To be clear, the Palestinian Authority (PA) shares Hamas’ ultimate goal of destroying Israel. They simply differ in tactics and strategy. The time has come for Israel to assert full control over Judea and Samaria to ensure its security, stability, and fulfillment of our historic and national rights.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to move forward with policies that will not only secure Israel’s future, but will strengthen the US – Israel alliance in a way that benefits both nations. We pray that Netanyahu helps President Trump understand that applying sovereignty in Judea and Samaria is the best expression of Trump’s “peace through strength” doctrine.
A recent poll taken in Israel reveals that 71% of Israelis oppose the establishment of a Palestinian state in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank), while 68% support extending Israeli sovereignty over these areas of historic and strategic significance to Israel. This overwhelming consensus underscores a collective recognition of three main concerns: security, historic/legal rights, and alignment with American interests.
Israel has prior experience in relinquishing control over its territory. Unfortunately, this has always led to an increase in terrorism and instability. Judea and Samaria hold profound historical significance for the Jewish people, and many Israelis believe it is their sovereign right to hold these areas. What’s more, Israel’s desire to apply sovereignty has significant implications for US foreign policy, and will strengthen strategic stability, counterterrorism, and allyship.
A secure Israel will serve as a cornerstone of stability in the Middle East, a region critical to global security and economic interests. By asserting control over Judea and Samaria, Israel can more effectively combat terror organizations that threaten both Israeli and American interests. Finally, supporting Israel’s democratic decisions reinforces its commitment to allies who share their values of freedom and democracy.
President Trump’s foreign policy emphasizes strength as a pathway to peace. Israel’s assertion of sovereignty in Judea and Samaria embodies this principle. A strong, assertive Israel deters adversaries who might otherwise exploit perceived weakness. And by establishing clear and secure borders, a more stable environment for any future peace negotiations will be created.
By standing with Israel, the United States will affirm its enduring alliance, upholding the principles of strength and peace that defines foreign policy for both nations.
Let us continue to support policies that promote stability, deter aggression, and foster peace through unwavering strength.
God bless America, and God bless her steadfast ally, Israel.
Avi Abelow is the host of the Pulse of Israel daily video/podcast and the CEO of 12Tribe Films Foundation.
The post Avi Abelow: Why Israel Should Rule in Judea and Samaria appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.