'There is another way': Boris Johnson pleads with Israel not to illegally annex more of West Bank

Boris Johnson has issued a last-gasp plea to Israel to pull back from illegally annexing much of the West Bank, warning it will fail to deliver “justice” for Palestinians.

In an opinion piece for an Israeli newspaper, the prime minister calls himself “a passionate defender of Israel” – but sharply criticises Benjamin Netanyahu’ plans, which have provoked an international outcry.

“I want to see an outcome that delivers justice for both Israelis and Palestinians,” Mr Johnson has written.

“Annexation would represent a violation of international law. It would also be a gift to those who want to perpetuate the old stories about Israel.

“I profoundly hope that annexation does not go ahead. If it does, the UK will not recognize any changes to the 1967 lines, except those agreed between both parties. There is another way.”

Mr Netanyahu has vowed to annex nearly a third of the occupied West Bank, having been given the green light by Donald Trump’s so-called ‘peace plan’ released in January.

It would leave a fragmented Palestinian state pockmarked by Israeli settlements, critics say, rejecting their fundamental demands, such as a capital in East Jerusalem.

Some have drawn comparisons with apartheid-era South Africa, warning Israel will be denying Palestinians their basic rights.

In the article, for Yedioth Ahronoth, Mr Johnson speaks of his “sadness” as “a life-long friend, admirer and supporter of Israel”.

“I am fearful that these proposals will fail in their objective of securing Israel’s borders and will be contrary to Israel’s own long-term interests,” the prime minister says.

“Annexation would put in jeopardy the progress that Israel has made in improving relationships with the Arab and Muslim world.

“I have never been more convinced that Israel’s interests overlap with those of our closest partners in the Arab world, including potential security cooperation against shared threats.”

Despite the strong words, the UK is not thought to be threatening any action against Israel if it defies international pressure and goes ahead.

Mr Netanyahu had vowed to begin the annexation of Israeli settlements and the Jordan Valley from 1 July, but has now said talks would continue “in the coming days” with American officials

His rival to be prime minister, Benny Gantz, said annexation must wait while the country tackles the coronavirus pandemic, pointing to deep divisions arising from the plan.

The West Bank and East Jerusalem have been occupied by Israel since the 1967 war and are now home to around 650,000 settlers.

Palestinians hope the territories will become their future state, but this is already seen as increasingly difficult as the settlements expand.

In the article, Mr Johnson said: “I welcome the commitment that President Trump has made to find a way forward.

“The only way it can be achieved is for both sides to return to the negotiating table. That must be our goal. Annexation would only take us further away from it.”